Whether you’re a carer for a family member or a professional care and support worker, you’ll know that the job can be physically and emotionally taxing at times. Although we know that caring can be a rewarding and incredibly important job, it’s also crucial that carers themselves take an active role in looking after their own health and wellbeing. In order to help, we’ve put together some top tips to help support workers take a moment to refuel and re-energise themselves.
1. Get out into nature
There’s nothing more restorative than a quick walk outside at the beginning or end of a long day. Not only will the fresh air and views help you to be more present and mindful, but the light exercise can help to invigorate your circulatory system and improve your own physical health. In order to provide the best care for others, it’s crucial that you look after your own body and treat it with care.
2. Set aside time for an activity that you enjoy
As a carer, it’s easy to lose yourself in the demands of everyday life and forget about the hobbies and activities that made you a person with a unique set of interests. Take the time to sign up for a local group who share similar passions or set aside a designated time to get back into gardening, swimming, or whatever other activity brings you joy and helps to rejuvenate you.
3. Talk to someone
When you’re a carer you might find that you bottle up your own feelings during your busy day-to-day life or prioritise the wellbeing of others over yourself. Consider making time for a coffee and chat with a trusted friend or even make an appointment with a counsellor. It’s crucial to look after your own mental and emotional health both for yourself and in order to care well for others.
4. Opt for some respite care
It’s common for family members to think that they have to take on all of the care work for their relatives, but there’s nothing wrong with opting for some respite time to care for yourself. Respite care is an excellent way to carve out some time to tick off some things on your to-do list while resting easy in the knowledge that your loved one is being cared for in the best way possible.
At Caremark, we offer a wide range of services ranging from home health care to respite care for the elderly. Contact us today for more information about our experienced staff and caring provision.
