November is National Family Caregivers Month
Over the course of our lifetime, many of us will find ourselves taking care of a loved one with a disease or disability who may need temporary or long-term assistance with daily activities. Being a caregiver, or what is often referred to as a “care partner,” can be fulfilling by offering the opportunity to provide a loved one, friend, or neighbor with needed help and reassurance. This role can also affect the life of the care partner in significant and often challenging ways.
The ability to continue to be a good care partner for your loved one depends on maintaining your own health. Here are some important points to remember to help you stay healthy as a care partner —for yourself and for the one you are caring for.
- Keep up with your own medical care. Don’t skip regularly scheduled preventive care, such as flu shots or mammograms.
- Make sure to get enough rest. Your ability to give care can be lessened by inadequate sleep.
- Continue or start to get regular physical activity. In addition to a variety of benefits for your physical health, regular physical activity is one of the best stress reducers available.
- Continue to nurture your own social relationships. A strong social network can help you cope with stress and provide support.
- Reach out for help when you need it. Virginia Veteran and Family Support is here to support caregivers of military service members and veterans, give us a call for care coordination services 877-285-1299.
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