Caring for the Carer

On a flight, in an emergency; the first step is for a Carer to take care of themselves. For example; they must first put on their oxygen mask before attending to another. If we use this analogy in our everyday lives of caring for someone, I think it is a good starting point.

To provide constant effective care you must look after your own health and immune system. Neglecting yourself can have consequences for you, but also for the person you care for. To ensure a healthy immune system enabling you to help others, doing the basics of:
Good nutrition
Enough sleep
Exercise
Breaks

Without rest and food you may become exhausted. If interrupted sleep is an issue, try to find someone who will help on occasion or during the day to enable you to take a break or a nap.

Exercise is very valuable as it reduces tension and increases energy. If getting out for a walk proves impossible try and do some stretching exercises while watching TV.

No matter who you are caring for and no matter what the illness is, there are ways you can be helped and ways to reduce your stress levels.

For more information please visit our website where you will find free downloadable resource reading on; Dementia Care at Home, Managing Caregiver Stress and Activities for the Mind, Body and Soul and these are to name just a few resources available. www.homeinstead.ie/elderly-care-resources

With Covid-19 social distancing and isolating, it is very challenging for Carers to get help from other family members, friends and neighbours. Home Care is an essential link in healthcare chain. Should you need assistance please contact Deirdre and the team at Home Instead Senior Care, Cork South to discuss care services or working with the team you can do so by calling 021 500 2190 or cork@homeinstead.ie.