It can be rewarding to provide senior care for a loved one, especially when they're your parent. However, being a caregiver can also be time-consuming and stressful, so completing essential tasks can sometimes be challenging. Below are some tips for alleviating tension and making the experience easier.

How Caregivers Can De-Stress

1. Staying Healthy

A caregiver can't expect to help another person's well-being if they can't care for themselves. If you're unhealthy, it becomes more difficult to cope with difficult situations and can lead to developing health complications.

You can remain in top shape by getting at least eight to ten hours of sleep at night, eating three healthy meals daily, and exercising routinely. Working out and keeping a healthy physical body releases dopamine and endorphins. These chemicals reduce stress, making you happier and less anxious in everyday life.

2. Joining Support Groups

It can be easy to feel lonely when caring for a loved one. A support group can address and alleviate this sentiment, as it encourages members and lets them know they're not alone.

In the group, many fulfill the same role within their families. By having peers who share the same experience, you can gain advice on handling challenging situations while making strong friendships. Many support groups are specific to certain conditions, allowing caregivers to congregate and discuss how they deal with the disorders.

3. Hiring Extra Help

Often, it can be difficult for a single person to take on every task. Whether providing care to someone who's simply older or a senior experiencing a disease, you can benefit from hiring extra help. 

Asking friends or relatives to help with simple matters such as paying bills or scheduling medical appointments can alleviate your duties. You should also consider professional caregiver services. Many specialize in helping with specific cases, giving you professional insight and assistance in tending to a loved one.

If you're seeking extra help tending to a loved one, COMPASS Homecare provides in-home personal care services to families throughout Anchorage, AK. Their professional caregivers can perform various tasks, including cleaning, cooking, and laundry, so you and your loved one can enjoy a higher quality of life. Call (907) 276-6960 to discuss a customized care plan, or visit their website to learn more about what they offer.