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Keeping the Family Caregiver Physically Healthy

The physical toll of Alzheimer's can be quite high if you are not prepared for it. Being a caregiver is both a physical and emotionally challenging role. Keeping yourself healthy is one of the best things you can do for you and your loved one.
Rena McDaniel
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Appreciate the good, laugh at the crazy, & deal with the rest!

Appreciate the good, laugh at the crazy, & deal with the rest!
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The physical toll of Alzheimer's can be quite high if you are not prepared for it. Being a caregiver is both a physical and emotionally challenging role. Keeping yourself healthy is one of the best things you can do for you and your loved one.

There are several things you can do to keep your health in tip-top shape for both of you.

  • Eat healthy. Eating well-balanced meals goes a long way in providing the necessary vitamins and nutrients your body will need.

  • Exercise. A good exercise regimen is not only good for the caregiver, but also the patient. Exercise has been shown to not only provide the necessary energy, it can put you in a good mood and make you feel good as well.

  • Rest. A good night's sleep is paramount. You can't do an effective job if you are sleepy all the time. You need a good eight hours of rest every night. As the disease progresses this will get harder and harder. A person with Alzheimer's seldom sleeps through the night, but exercising and eating right can help with bad sleeping habits.

  • Take Breaks. Respite care is necessary to avoid caregiver burnout. Taking time for yourself and other family members will help you be a better caregiver. A couple of hours every day or a day a week can make a huge difference in how you feel and how effective you are as a caregiver.

  • Get support. Caregiving is not a job that can be done single-handedly. You need help. Getting a great support team assembled whether they are family, friends or professionals is a must.

  • Learn all you can. Being a knowledgeable caregiver will make you more confident and secure in what you are doing. It will minimize feelings of desperation, insecurities and feelings of being overwhelmed.

    • Being a caregiver is probably the hardest job you will ever do. It is both physically and emotionally draining. It will wipe you out at times. Keeping yourself healthy will be an added benefit to both the caregiver and the patient. Following these tips will go a long way in helping you become successful. Someone who is caregiving is twice as likely to suffer from depression and other illness. Keeping physically and emotionally healthy can change everything.

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