Five Approaches to Caregiver Happiness

With the many tedious daily tasks involved with caring for patients in their homes, caregivers deserve both reverence and respite. The level of hard work demanded by this rewarding profession consumes immeasurable time, energy, and patience in addition to mental, physical, and emotional strength.  

From the constant administering of medication, playing the role of a companion to dealing with other mundane tasks, being a caregiver is an often-demanding job without much time for rest. However, in order to perform at their best, caregivers need to ensure they are in the best state — mentally, physically, and emotionally. Without adequate self-care, the possibility of providing the best care is limited.  

Here are five potential ways you can maintain the pursuit of happiness as a caregiver in order to continue providing optimal care to others:

1. Practice self-care:

Self-care is not selfish. It is the first step towards a healthy and happier life as a caregiver. While self-care practices may vary, finding what works for you and finding balance in your life helps you to achieve total happiness.  

2. Maintaining quality relationships:

Healthy relationships mean less time for  loneliness, sadness and anxiety. Whether with family, friends or the caregiving community, ensure you establish and maintain quality relationships. Being able to depend on people in your time of need leads to great happiness.  

3. Foster a positive mindset:

While no one can stay positive all the time, dwelling in a  negative mindset can inhibit your overall happiness. Actively shifting your mindset to focus on the positive is an excellent wellness practice. Even if it feels hokey at first, over time it can become habit, so try to overcome rough moments and choose to focus on the positive. To help maintain a positive mindset, try journaling or recording moments that have sentimental value. 

4. Incorporate humor:

Laughter is the best medicine, and caregivers are encouraged to include this medicine in their daily routine. Laughtertriggers the release of stress hormones, relaxing the body, boosting immunity and in turn increasing blood flow, which helps maintain a healthy heart. So, laugh every day and keep illness at bay! 

5. Practice healthy eating:

To be an efficient caregiver and accomplish your daily tasks, you must stay healthy. Eating well is a great start to leading a healthy lifestyle. As we note in this article on caregiver health, “Focusing on fresh vegetables and fruits, lean proteins and whole grains can be a great start and an excellent example for the person receiving care.”  By ensuring you consume vitamins, minerals, and nutrients and maintain a healthy diet, you are opting to stay strong and alert.

Takeaway 

While providing round-the-clock care for a friend or loved one can be quite daunting, it is also an incredible accomplishment. Knowing you are responsible when a patient has received quality care can provide a feeling of fulfillment. However, in order to care for their senior loved ones, caregivers must also prioritize themselves and practice self-care. 

Are you considering caring for a friend or family at home? Looking for more resources to help stay happy and healthy as a home-based caregiver? Check out the online Support Center at Mass Care Link.