Aspirus | Aspire | Winter 2019

aspirus.org 11 PRESCHOOLERS 3–5 Years SCHOOL-AGE KIDS 6–13 Years TEENAGERS 14–17 Years ADULTS 18+ Years NEED 10–13 HOURS NEED 9–11 HOURS NEED 8–10 HOURS NEED 7–9 HOURS Self-care tips for caregivers Is caregiving getting the best of you? Aspirus offers programs and services that can help you take the best care of your loved ones, including: ▸ ▸ Respite care. ▸ ▸ Help at home. ▸ ▸ Home health. ▸ ▸ Nursing homes and assisted living facilities. ▸ ▸ Support groups. GOONLINETO aspirus.org or call the Aspirus Customer Contact Center at 800.847.4707 to learn more about how Aspirus can help. AS A CAREGIVER, you probably put your loved one’s needs first, but you can’t do your best work in taking care of someone else unless you also take care of yourself. “Even though caregiving is rewarding, it’s also hard and stressful work that can take a toll on your mental and physical health,” said Nichole Krenzke, CNA, a certified nursing assistant and activities manager at Aspirus Pleasant View in Phillips. “When you ignore your own well-being, it can lead to stress, worry, exhaustion and eventual burnout. Don’t feel guilty about focusing some time and energy on your own needs and interests.” The stress of caregiving is linked to a long list of health problems, including high blood pressure, depression, heart disease, cancer and alcohol abuse. To help stay healthy (for yourself and your loved one): 1. SAY “YES” TO CAREGIVING HELP. Could family, friends or church members lend a hand with yard work, your loved one’s doctor appointments or other tasks? “Make a list of what you need, and ask them for help,” Krenzke said. “Or look into respite care. This service can provide care for your loved one while you run errands or take a well-deserved break.” 2. DON’T SKIMP ON MEALS, EXERCISE OR REST. Try your best to eat healthy, balanced meals and to get plenty of sleep—seven or more hours a night. Exercise (like walking) can help you feel good and less stressed. 3. SEE YOUR DOCTOR. Regular checkups help keep you healthy, so they’re too important to skip. Tell your doctor if you have any symptoms of a physical or emotional problem. 4. DEVELOP WAYS TO COPE. “Laughter can do wonders to alleviate stress, so seek out things that make you laugh,” Krenzke said. “Focusing on the positive is also a great way to cope, as is finding time to participate in hobbies and activities you enjoy.” 5. TALK IT OUT. Don’t keep your feelings and frustrations locked up inside. Talk about what you’re feeling and experiencing with a trusted friend or counselor. Caregiver support groups are an excellent place to meet others dealing with similar issues and gain valuable tips and information. Support groups aimed at people living with or recovering from specific diseases or conditions— Alzheimer’s disease or stroke, for example—typically encourage caregivers and loved ones to attend as well. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; Caregiver Action Network Nichole Krenzke, CNA