RAIN RAIN GO AWAY
There is an old saying: "Into each life some rain must fall", well from my experience as a caregiver, I would venture to say it's more than likely than not, the rain clouds of stress will be knocking on your door on a regular basis during your caregiving journey. But here are a few tips I’d like to share that I found helpful in caring for my mom.
1) Organize Organize Organize - Prepare your to do list the night before and take into account what time you wake up until the end of the day when you are ready for bed. I included a little quiet time/mediation before starting the day and reflection on things accomplished as well as things that didn’t get done at the end of the day. Have multiple calendars around the house and in your purse to check and to keep current on what you have to do daily
2) Wake Up To Music - Put Some Pep In Your Step – Remember Muzak, the inventor of the elevator mood music? Many companies started using it as background music to help workers be more calm and to increase employee productivity. It wasn’t just any old music, the research was based on the average frame of mind of most people throughout the day, Guess what, you can select your favorite tunes to do the same. Whether it’s relaxing with a quick cup of tea or getting pep some in your step when you need to get things done.
3) Who Moved My Paperwork – When you are in a hurry, it seems it’s always the most important paperwork you need right away that you can’t find. To save yourself major stress and headaches, make copies of files and have a binder or folder always in a special bag or handbag ready to grab as you go out the door. Keep originals in a safe place and keep all files and information updated so whenever you have appointments or important meetings so you’ll have the most current information on hand for future reference.
4) ABAB – Or Always Bring A Book - The time a caregiver can devote to themselves is generally very little and much of your time is spent in waiting rooms-- why else do you think medical offices have stacks of books to read. So take a hint, bring your own favorite reading or study material while you are waiting for appointments.
5) Plan Your Work And Work Your Plan - Always have a contingency plan –– be ready if your dinner entrée turns out to be a mess, you can’t find your keys, have car trouble on the way to an appointment or you get stuck in traffic. Keep emergency phone numbers handy and have map quest directions in the car if it’s your first time going to a location.
6) Keep A Personal Journal - Take a moment to review your daily boos and brags – if things didn’t go right, write it out, forgive yourself and figure out how you can do it better next time. If you “nailed it” in something you needed to do – give yourself an “atta girl” pat on the back.
Finally, always expect the unexpected, and remember if you’re upset, your loved one can pick up that negative energy and that can make them tense and out of sorts also. So, laugh a lot, keep your sense of humor and remember – tomorrow is another day.
Be Well - Stay Well - Because Caregivers Need Care Too!!
Coach Gloria
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Certified Wellness Coach & Caregiver-Patient Advocate
Owner: GJ Brown & Associates
Blog: Glo’s Caregiver Wellness Connection
Email: gbrown1gjba@gmail.com
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