Caring for a loved one with a loss of autonomy is a strong act of love that requires a lot of energy. However, when we take care of someone, we often tend to forget ourselves. To be a great helper, make sure you don't neglect your own happiness. Follow our advice, and everything will go like clockwork.
Being a Caregiver:A Deep but Exhausting Commitment
In France, 11 million people come to the aid of a loved one who is losing their autonomy. A sincere investment that testifies to the strength of family ties, but which requires a lot of energy on the part of the caregiver. Fatigue can then set in very quickly and with it, the feeling of failure and a deep malaise. This is called caregiver burnout.
These signs that should alert you
The feeling of moral and physical exhaustion that you may feel as a caregiver is not good for you or your loved one. To continue to be always on top, learn to spot the first signs of a burnout:
Our tips for always being on top of your job
Take care of your diet
Caring for someone can be stressful and impact your appetite. Consequences:you skip meals and lack energy. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle based on a balanced diet is the key to staying in shape. So, eat meals every day with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, but also protein, and starches for endurance.
Applications at the service of caregivers
E-Caregivers:a free application that connects family caregivers and allows you to request help from a nearby professional to take over.
iCompanion Helper:an application allowing family caregivers to watch over their senior loved one remotely. In particular, it allows them to be warned if the elderly person is in difficulty.
Rest when possible
People with loss of autonomy get tired quite quickly and often need to take a nap to recover. Take advantage of this little break to rest yourself without feeling guilty. A 20-minute nap would improve cognitive abilities, restore energy, fight fatigue and increase alertness. [1]
Sleep well
People with loss of autonomy are regularly prone to sleep disturbances at night, and this can disrupt your own biological rhythm. Invest in a good pair of earplugs and try sleeping with the door closed. If your nights are particularly restless, talk to your doctor to find suitable solutions.
Get fit through physical activity
Not only is practicing regular physical activity good for your health, but it is also a way to take time for yourself. Three or four times a week, take a breath of fresh air by going for a run, a walk, or practicing your favorite sport. If possible, ask your loved one to accompany you.
Can't be there to prepare the meal?
Associations or approved companies offer home meal delivery services. The price ? €5 to €8 per hot or cold meal. Contact the municipal center for social action (CCAS) or the town hall on which your loved one depends.
Pamper yourself
Caring for someone can put a strain on your body. Treating yourself to small pleasures such as a weekend, an evening with friends, an appointment with the beautician or a simple relaxing bath can have a huge impact on your well-being. When you do, don't feel guilty, you deserve it.
Child care solutions to take a break
To be able to breathe at times, why not call in a home help on an ad hoc basis? You will have plenty of time to take time for yourself in peace. There are solutions to simplify the administrative procedures for you:the declarative CESU (universal service employment cheque) and the pre-financed CESU.
Follow simple hygiene rules
To avoid contracting a virus that would compromise your good health or that of your loved one, be sure to adopt simple actions. Wash your hands regularly with soapy water:before each meal, cooking, eating, and after using the toilet. Also remember to cover your nose and mouth when sneezing, etc.
Being a helper does not mean that you have to forget yourself, quite the contrary. To continue to fulfill your role, learn to take care of yourself without feeling guilty. In addition to making you more efficient, it will allow you to take care of your loved one much longer.
[1] National Institute for Prevention and Health Education (INPES)
