Informal caregivers provide in-home care for their loved ones as they age. Aging in place allows a spouse, parent, or a loved one in need the opportunity to stay in the comforts of their home, reducing stress and providing a happier, more loving environment. Caregiving can be a rewarding task, whether it is part-time or full-time. However, it is also a highly demanding role. It takes patience, commitment, and determination to provide long-term caregiving tasks, which can be overly stressful. It is crucial to remember to also take care of yourself as a caregiver. This helps to ensure you are always the best version of yourself when providing care for others.

Tips for Self-Care as a Caregiver

Throughout the Upper Peninsula, much of our population is getting older. This has increased the need for in-home care. For many families in Marquette, this means a loved one taking on the task as an informal caregiver. Allowing a loved one to age in place is an amazing gift to give, but to ensure you are also caring for yourself, keep the following tips in mind.

Set Realistic Goals

You can only do so much. The best way to prevent caregiver burnout is to be realistic about what you can accomplish — even day-to-day tasks can add up quickly. Some days will be more productive than others, and that is okay. It can be beneficial to make a list of tasks to accomplish, which can vary each day. Finding a routine that works for you is key.

Focus on What You Can Do

There is no such thing as a “perfect” caregiver. Even with the best intentions, you can find yourself feeling guilty or that you should have been able to do more. Self-care involves reminding yourself that you are doing the best you can. Small affirmations can go a long way in improving mental health and positivity.

Ask for Help

A caregiver wears many hats. You are there for big picture aid and the day-to-day, which can be a lot to put on one person. The best thing you can do for yourself and your loved one is to know when to ask for help. This could involve asking a spouse, family member, or friend to take care of a task or turning to professional services to relieve the pressure on you. Asking for help doesn’t diminish your ability as a caregiver; it simply ensures you are always in the best place to provide care.

Trusting in the Professionals

At Marquette Home Care, we provide in-home care for clients throughout the Marquette area, including Negaunee, Ishpeming, Gwinn, and Harvey. We provide a range of services, including personal care, transportation, companion care, and more. We know how important it is that your loved one receives the quality care they deserve. Whether you need us full or part-time, we can help, allowing you to care not just for your loved one, but for yourself as well. Give us a call at 906-361-8022.