Caregiver Hacks for Family Caregivers

Just as you must secure your own oxygen mask before helping others on a plane, a caregiver must prioritize their own well-being to provide the best support for their loved one. In this post, we’ll review some effective caregiver hacks to ensure you look out for yourself, so you have the stamina to look after your loved one.

Download Your Guide to Welcoming a Caregiver

Do I Need Help?

Caregivers are less likely to practice self care or to get preventative health care because they are so busy providing aid for their aging loved one. However, if you experience any of the following feelings, it is wise to check in with yourself.

• Feeling drained, overwhelmed, or anxious
• Becoming easily frustrated or impatient
• Dealing with frequent headaches, body aches, or other physical discomforts
• Feeling isolated or disconnected from others
• Struggling with sleep, whether it’s difficulty falling asleep or not getting enough rest
• Experiencing sadness, hopelessness, or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
• Not having enough time for exercise or preparing nutritious meals
• Neglecting personal hygiene, like skipping showers or forgetting to brush your teeth
• Relying on alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications in unhealthy ways

Where Can I Go For Caregiver Help?

There are plenty of resources to turn to if you need help with caregiving. These include:

• Your doctor. Let your doctor know you’re a caregiver. They can offer health advice and connect you with support groups, respite care, and other resources.
• A counselor or mental health professional. If you’re feeling anxious, frustrated, or depressed, seek help. Ask your doctor for referrals and check your insurance for coverage.
• Local senior services. Contact your senior center, state office on aging, social services office, or Area Agency on Aging for resources and guidance.
• Your faith community. Religious leaders can offer guidance and encouragement, and larger congregations may also have caregiver support groups.

Caregiver Tips

Here are some things to keep in mind when you need a little extra help.

• Stay active. Regular exercise, even short walks, boosts energy, reduces stress, and supports heart health.
• Prioritize sleep. Aim for 7–9 hours of rest each night to support mood, memory, and overall well-being.
• Eat well. A balanced diet gives you energy and helps prevent health issues. Choose nutritious snacks when on the go.
• Make time for yourself. Do something you enjoy daily — reading, walking, crafts, or listening to music.
• Get out regularly. Take a break from routine — visit a coffee shop, attend an event, or meet a friend. Also, try to find moments to laugh.
• Monitor your mental health. Caregiving is stressful. If you feel overwhelmed or depressed, talk to a therapist.
• Stay on top of finances. Keep working if needed and plan for the future. Staying engaged helps with life after caregiving.
• Prioritize your health. Keep up with medical and dental checkups. Get help when needed to attend appointments.
• Think positively. Let go of guilt, recognize your limits, and appreciate the effort you put into caregiving.
• Manage stress. Identify stressors and take steps to reduce them, such as exercising, meditating, or deep breathing.
• Stay connected. Maintain relationships with family and friends, even if it’s just through calls or online chats.

To learn about our home care services, contact our caregiving team today at 1-800-GRISWOLD or find a Caregiver near you.