Caregivers: Tips for Your Peace of Mind

 For those who are acting as caregivers to loved ones with health issues, it can be extremely difficult to provide a comforting environment for their loved ones and maintain financial security. Many people who are taking care of their family members end up spending quite a bit of their own money during the process, leaving their finances in shambles.

That’s why it’s so important to make sure you’re taking care of your own needs while making sure your loved one is safe and comfortable. Even when setting your home up for the care process, set it up for your self-care by increasing natural lighting, adding plants, and giving yourself a designated space to relax and meditate. It’s not always easy, but with these tips, you can create a plan that works for you and your loved one. 

Continue Working

 Many caregivers feel they must give up their day jobs in order to take care of their loved one full-time, but this can put a serious strain on your finances quickly. Instead, look for a job you can do at home, on your own time such as freelance writing, tutoring your favorite subject, bookkeeping, or graphic design. Continuing to work will help give you peace of mind and will allow you to keep some padding in your bank account as you work hard to help your loved one stay comfortable.

 Additionally, you may want to go back to school so you can lay the groundwork for a new career. Online universities allow you to easily take classes online and set your own schedule, and varied start times mean you can begin your education throughout the year. This means you can continue to work and provide care for your loved one.

 Social Well-Being

 As a caregiver for a senior loved one, it can be easy to get caught up in the demands of daily life and forget about your own social needs. However, maintaining a healthy social life is crucial for your overall well-being. Social connections have been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and even boost cognitive function.

 One way to reconnect with old friends and expand your social circle is by using online databases to find people from high school or college. Rekindling these past relationships can provide a much-needed break from caregiving duties and help you feel more connected to the world outside of your role as a caregiver. Remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved one, so don't hesitate to prioritize your social life when possible.

 Holistic Stress Management (Think: Magnesium or THCa)

 Many caregivers look to prescriptions to help with stress levels, but this combined with a dementia patient or simply an array of medications to keep track of can be dangerous. Instead, to help manage stress, consider incorporating natural methods like magnesium into your routine, as it supports relaxation and reduces tension. And explore different formulations of THCa, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, which some find beneficial for calming the mind and easing anxiety. Always consult with a healthcare provider before adding any new supplements to ensure they’re appropriate for your needs.

 Look into Care Options

 If your loved one needs long-term care or has a sudden costly medical issue, it’s important that you know what all your options are. This is because taking on more care responsibilities than you’re qualified to handle can result in debilitating anxiety. Life insurance policies can be sold, for instance, for a quick cash infusion that can be used to pay for professional care. However, there are certain requirements, including a minimum face value of $100,000. Selling the policy now means giving up certain securities in the future, but it could help your own mental wellness.

Have a Discussion

 It’s imperative to talk to your loved one about their wishes when it comes to long-term care or final arrangements, especially if they have been diagnosed with a life-threatening disease. This can be a difficult discussion to initiate, but it’s important that you understand what they want so you can come to an agreement about their care. This will also ensure that you aren’t left with a large stack of medical bills and crippling anxiety down the road.

 Know Your Rights

 If you’re employed, know that the Family and Medical Leave Act will protect your job should you need to take an extended amount of time off to be with your loved one, so it’s a good idea to get familiar with your rights in the workplace. Talk to your employers to find out your company’s stance on taking time off and how they can help you during a difficult time. Some states offer paid leave when it comes to family and medical emergencies, so do some research to find out what’s available to you.

 Keeping your finances in order can be difficult even at the best of times. When you’re in charge of your loved one’s care, it can be extremely stressful and overwhelming. Take care of yourself as much as possible to avoid mental health repercussions, and find support as you need it. With some careful planning, you and your loved one can stay comfortable for years to come.