Thursday, January 7, 2010

How can a Caregiver reduce stress in their lives?

Finding ways to reduce caregivers stress will help lessen the long-term emotional and physical toll. Tips for managing stress include:

1. Keep a positive attitude. Believe in yourself.
2. Accept that there are events you cannot control.
3. Be assertive instead of aggressive. "Assert" your feelings, opinions, or beliefs instead of becoming angry, combative, or passive.
4. Learn to relax.
5. Exercise regularly. Your body can fight stress better when it is fit.
6. Stop smoking.
7. Limit yourself to moderate alcohol and caffeine intake.
8. Set realistic and expectations.
9. Get enough rest and sleep. Your body needs time to recover from stressful events.
10. Don't relay on alcohol and drugs to reduce stress.
11. Learn to use stress management techniques and coping mechanisms, such as deep breathing or guided imagery.

Our staff at Alzheimer's Services are here to help, please feel free to call us at 225-334-7494.

No comments: