Why is self-care important?

One of the most important things you can do to support someone with dementia is to take care of yourself. By acknowledging and addressing your own needs, you will be better prepared to provide effective care and support.

10 Self-Care Tips

  1. Set realistic expectations for yourself
  2. Get help - don't try to do everything by yourself
  3. Talk to someone who is willing to listen
  4. Take one day at a time - enjoy something about each day
  5. Continue to participate in activities you enjoy
  6. Look after your emotional and spiritual health by learning relaxation techniques (link to relaxation exercise)
  7. Get some exercise, even if it's just a quick walk around the block
  8.  Make regular appointments with your doctor. Let them know if you are concerned about your stress level
  9. Take breaks from caregiving - enlist the help of family, friends, or community services such as respite or adult days centres
  10. Access support and information available from your local Alzheimer Society of B.C. resource centre. Learn more about services available in your community...
     

Signs of Caregiver Stress

Below are examples of some symptoms which may signal the existence of stress. It is important to recognize these symptoms and be proactive in addressing your stress level. Always consult your doctor if you are concerned about stress or your health.

Physical Signs:

  • Muscle tension
  • Headaches
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Sleep disorders
  • Digestive problems

Behavioural Signs:

  • Lack of motivation
  • Inability to relax or enjoy yourself
  • Irritability
  • Sexual problems
  • Loss of appetite

Escape Activities:

  • Smoking
  • Alcohol or other drug use
  • Over-eating
  •  Compulsive spending

Psychological/Emotional Signs:

  • Forgetfulness
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Depression
  • Frustration and anger
  • Loss of self-esteem

Coping with Stress

We all have, at times, succumbed to exhaustion. Especially fter a particularly hard day. The problem becomes serious when the stress continues day after day, and hope for any change to this pattern diminishes. This can happen when a person adjusts their life to self-imposed demands or demands that are a result of their environment, without consideration of their own needs.

Stress is a very real health hazard. Caregivers often ignore the signs of stress and carry on as usual because they feel there is no alternative but to do so.  This can result in burnout or other health problems.

It is important to accept help prior to feeling the effects of debilitating stress. Accept that you have limitations, and be assertive in asking for help before a situation becomes a crisis.

Coping with Feelings

As a caregiver, you may experience a variety of feelings. These feelings are not good or bad, but just are.

Caring for a person with dementia can bring out anger related to the person’s increasing dependency and demands on your time, energy and finances. It is okay to be angry. It is what you do with the anger that is important. If you are concerned about feeling angry, it may be helpful to talk to someone (i.e. a doctor, counselor, clergy, etc.).

When caring for a person with dementia, caregivers may experience various overwhelming feelings.  Some arise from being unable to change the situation, no matter how much they would like to and no matter how much they care about the person. Others, such as hopelessness, arise from feeling that there is no end to the many concerns that they, the person and their family face. It is natural for to experience these various emotional reactions to the challenges and responsibilities of the caregiving role.