Learn about the 6 tenets of self-care for caregivers
Caregiver well-being: 6 tenets of self-care
Follow these best practices for well-being during times of uncertainty.
Social well-being
- Maintain connection by staying in touch with family and friends
- Seek and accept help from others
- Join an in-person or virtual support group
Physical well-being
- Eat a balanced diet
- Exercise regularly
- Get a good night’s sleep
- Tend to your own health care needs
Emotional well-being
- Recognize stress, then take steps to manage it
- Keep a journal
- Set aside some “me time”
- Know your limitations and boundaries
- Be mindful, present and judgment-free
- Practice gratitude
Preparedness well-being
- Learn about your loved one’s condition
- Know your loved one’s medical information (pharmacy, medications, health history, etc.)
- Know your loved one’s Social Security number and birthdate
Financial well-weing
- Research programs to help cover caregiving costs and expenses
- Set a budget
- Consider temporary loan, credit card and mortgage deferments
- Review your options if you need to leave your job to become a caregiver
- Review your retirement savings
- Create necessary legal documents (power of attorney, living will, will, do not resuscitate order.)
Career well-being
- Communicate with your supervisor and co-workers
- Review options for flex time
- Organize home and work calendars
- Manage your phone calls and emails to ensure work and your loved one are tended to
- Use vacation time as vacation time
- Learn about leave policies, including Family Medical Leave and paid elder care leave
Elder care and counseling can help! Utilize your available resources.