Take Care of Yourself to Take Care of Others

Practical tips for self-care

• Get enough sleep. A good night’s sleep is best, but if caregiving interrupts sleep, try to take a nap during the day.
• Get outside. Caregiving can mean a lot of time indoors, but natural light helps reset your system and stimulates healthy responses in your body.
• Try a group fitness class. Group classes can be more motivating because of their social atmosphere. Not only will you get good exercise, but you’ll also build up a social circle to support you in your caregiving. Many hospitals offer group health programs.
• Learn to be safe. If your caregiving requires things like lifting or transferring your loved one, be sure to ask a doctor, nurse, or physical therapist to show you the correct way to do it so that you don’t hurt yourself.
• Cut corners in a healthy way. Caregiving for another eats into time for self-care. Use the salad bar at the grocery store or buy freshly prepared, healthy meals now available at many groceries if you don’t have time to cook yourself.