Caregiver for My Parents

I am a caregiver for my parents and have been so for over 3 years now. And, over the last 2 years the health of both of my parents has increasingly declined. I love my parents dearly; and, I always put their needs first. And, my needs are shoved to the bottom of the list. My self-care has gone out the window and I am thoroughly exhausted. Does anyone have any ideas or suggestions that may help me with self-care for myself? Thank you in advance.

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Start small. Small but also consistent!

For example start with a daily pampering of yourself. This could mean a quite time with your favorite book or morning drink (or evening drink)

Showers can be pampering if you take extra time for yourself, after a shower maybe some body pampering like a natural lotion that has an uplifting calming smell you like. Or Find an activity you enjoy but does not drain you and do that weekly if you can. Being a caregiver is a full time job on top of the other full time jobs we have that is part of just living. If you do not take care of you daily in some meaningful way you can not be the best giver for your parents.

Prioritize, make lists if needed, a schedule or just get in a habit of doing one thing every day that will help you in whatever way you need that day.

[kenster1]

hi I admire you big time been a carer for family myself in the past most recent an aunt with dementia sometime 7 days a week its utterly draining I hope you have other family helping out to give you a break don`t leave yourself behind like I did.don`t know where you live but you can get help even for a couple of hours a day you should contact social services for advice and information to help you.

[Bella_lee]

Hi @Julester51 you are doing an amazing job and being such a wonderful and loving daughter to your parents. I do understand how tiring it must be for you and it is important that you get some self care.

Everybody is different in how they recharge and relax but some of the things I do that helps me in my self care is listening to relaxing instrumental music, reading books that are full of humor because laughter is good for us, praying and reading my bible in the morning before I start my day or at night before I sleep, having a pedicure or manicure and getting my hair done. I know your time is limited but even a couple of hours choosing to do something you enjoy will be really beneficial for you. Is there any other family member or close friend who you trust and can come and sit with your parent maybe for a couple of hours while you get some time. Your parents are blessed to have you as a daughter and I pray all works out for the best for you and your family. Stay strong.