If you’re one of the millions of Americans who serves as a family caregiver, you know it isn’t easy. From managing cognitive decline to assisting with physical health needs, there’s no shortage of tasks to complete. And, for many caregivers, these tasks are balanced with other work or responsibilities.

There’s also a major emotional component to being a caregiver. After all, nobody wants to watch their elderly parents or loved ones go through Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Whether they’re facing mild memory loss or serious memory problems, the emotional impact can be significant.

Ultimately, caring for a loved one can take a serious toll on families. To get support, many people turn to the help of a memory care home such as Catered Living. At our home, we’re dedicated to helping caregivers and family members who are coping with memory loss. Keep reading to discover our top caregiving tips as well as the benefits of professional senior care.

The Gap in Support for Caregivers

When you take on the role of caregiver, you assume a lot of responsibility. The main focus of the role is providing support to others. However, people often forget that caregivers need support as well. According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, over a quarter of caregivers feel impacted by the role emotionally. Compared to non-caregivers, caregivers are more likely to experience stress, low self-esteem and anxiety.

Much of this stress stems from the difficulty of watching a loved one go through memory loss or physical health issues. However, there’s also a financial aspect. Over 53 million Americans are unpaid family caregivers, and a large number are forced to choose between their jobs and caregiving duties.

For many caregivers, stress only grows over time. As health needs increase, caregivers end up directing more of their own time and energy to loved ones, which leaves less time to focus on their personal needs.

Practical and Compassionate Strategies for Caregivers

Between the emotional stress and the high level of responsibility, caregiving can be extremely taxing. That’s why, in addition to caring for others, caregivers should look out for their own mental health. Here are some helpful tips to help caregivers cope with stress.

Building a Supportive Routine

Unlike a typical 9-to-5 job, caregiving is an ongoing process. You can’t just log off in the evening — your responsibilities continue throughout the day and sometimes even the night. To help manage this stress, it’s important to create a routine that supports both you and your loved one. Here are some helpful strategies to incorporate into your daily routine:

• Maintain a healthy diet: Eating nutritious foods can improve energy levels and overall well-being.
• Exercise: Along with healthy eating, it’s important to get regular exercise.
• Meditate: Mindfulness activities, such as meditation, are known to reduce stress.
• Socialize: Many caregivers experience loneliness. Socializing, whether it’s with friends or through a caregiving support group, can help prevent isolation.
• Engage in hobbies: Participating in activities you enjoy, such as reading or hiking, is essential for self-care.

Effective Communication With Seniors

While it’s important to look out for your own health, caregiving also requires assessing and catering to a senior loved one’s needs. Unfortunately, this isn’t always easy — especially when the senior has a memory disorder. Cognitive decline can make it harder for older adults to communicate their needs effectively. Here are some tips on how to connect with older loved ones:

• Create a calm environment: Creating a calm, relaxing atmosphere can help put seniors at ease and make them more likely to communicate.
• Use simple language: Avoid using complex, confusing words, as these may frustrate seniors.
• Be positive: Using positive reinforcement (such as smiling and complimenting a senior) can be encouraging.
• Be patient: Above all, it’s important not to get frustrated. Instead, try to be patient and understanding.

Utilizing Memory Aids and Technology

If you’re still struggling to communicate with a senior loved one, technology can help. Here are some modern tools designed to make caregiving a bit easier:

• Visual aids: Visual items, such as photographs and videos, can help prompt memories in seniors.
• Mobile applications: Applications can remind you of important tasks. For example, you can get a notification whenever a loved one needs to take medication or go to the doctor’s office.
• Monitoring systems: Things like remote cameras can help you watch over a loved one at all times — even when you’re not home.
• Alert systems: Seniors can wear emergency alert systems with buttons that notify caregivers when they need assistance.

When to Seek Professional Memory Care

While technology can definitely help with caregiving, it isn’t a comprehensive solution. You might find that, even with the help of external tools, you’re still struggling to meet a loved one’s needs. As memory loss progresses, cognitive decline may worsen. In these cases, it’s usually best to seek professional memory care services such as Catered Living.

Catered Living’s Commitment to Memory Care

If you’re struggling to cope with a loved one’s memory loss, you’re not alone. At Catered Living, we recognize the unique stress caregivers are under. That’s why we do everything possible to support both caregivers and their senior family members.

Our premier memory care home provides everything your loved one needs, from a safe, secure environment to 24/7 care and support. We also offer emotional support to help cope with this new transition. Our ultimate goal is to ensure your entire family is happy moving forward.

Navigating Caregiving: Tools & Support for the Journey Ahead

Nobody said caregiving was easy. In fact, it can be incredibly challenging. The good news is that you can manage those challenges by:

• Engaging in self-care
• Practicing positive communication techniques
• Using memory aids and technology
• Seeking professional help

Are you looking for extra support? Whether you’re worried about a loved one’s health or simply need a break from caregiving, we’re here to help. Contact Catered Living at (410) 208-1000 or schedule an appointment online to learn more.