Being organized can reduce stress and help you prepare for unexpected challenges as you care for your loved one.
Organizational Tips
- Assign Priorities – Make a list of what needs to be done and do the most important tasks first.
- Identify Supportive People – Think of friends, neighbors or other relatives that are able to help and find out the types of support they can provide. That way, you’ll have a list of “go-to” people when specific needs arise.
- Be Intentional as You Arrange Your Day – Try to take full advantage of any possible help from friends, neighbors and outside agencies.
- Pace Yourself – Don’t work to the point of exhaustion as this will increase your caregiving stress level instead of decreasing it.
- Set Limits (and stick to them!) – Learn to say “no” and not take on too much. This is a form of self-care.
- Partner with Your Healthcare Team – Caregivers are an important part of the healthcare team. Get to know your loved one’s care team and seek their help for short and long-term plans.
Adapted from the Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/9226-caregivers-successful-caregiving. Visit the link for more valuable tips.