By Ted Wolfendale | August 22, 2017
Some family caregivers avoid scheduling in personal time for themselves for a variety of reasons. The problem with that is that it can cost you way more than you think you’re saving.
You Can’t Be “On” All the Time
No matter what you might think, you simply can’t be on your game all the time. It might feel as if your loved one and your other family members expect that of you, but that doesn’t mean that you have to live up to that. Giving yourself personal time allows you to have time where you don’t have to focus on anything but yourself.
Not Thinking about Caregiving for a Little While Can Help You Be a Better Caregiver
The biggest benefit of not thinking about caregiving, even for an hour or two, is that you’ll be better able to focus on caregiving when you’re back “on the job.” Giving your brain a rest from some of the bigger issues that you deal with constantly, as well as those smaller issues, allows it to focus elsewhere for a time. It’s like clenching a muscle and then releasing it.
You’re a Human Being with Other Interests and Needs
When you’re a caregiver, you may find that you set aside hobbies and interests that you enjoy. But the problem with that is that you’re a human being with your own needs and interests. If you ignore that, your brain and your body are going to remind you of that forcibly when you least expect it. Allowing yourself to have personal time on your own terms keeps surprises in check.
You Don’t Have to Be the Only One Helping Your Loved One
If control issues are part of the reason that you turn down personal time, you might want to rethink that. As your loved one’s primary family caregiver, you likely have the most knowledge about caring for your loved one. That doesn’t mean, however, that you’re the only one who can or should be helping your loved one.
You’ll benefit more than you realize if you give yourself the time away from caregiving that you need. Make personal time a priority and don’t penalize yourself for taking it.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Caregiver Services in Bonita FL, call the caring staff at Dial-a-Nurse today. Naples: (239) 434-8000. Ft. Myers: (239) 939-1228.