Your dad needs help around his home, but you can’t lose sight of your own needs. If you’re pushing aside a healthy self-care routine to help your dad, it will impact your physical and mental health. Follow these five steps to make sure you’re taking care of yourself.
Exercise Every Day
Elderly Care Claremont, CA: Healthy Self-Care
Exercise for at least 30 minutes each day. It’s good for your body, but it also helps you clear your thoughts. Give your mind a break from chores or work and get outside in the sun and fresh air.
Mix it up. Experts say you should get some aerobic activity each week along with strength training and programs that help with balance. If you have a TV that you can stream to, YouTube has lots of beginner, moderate, and expert videos for everything from Tai Chi and Yoga to Zumba and Belly Dance.
Think About What You’re Eating
A healthy diet is a large part of self-care. Avoid lots of sugary, salty, fatty foods. They’ll make you feel sluggish and tired. Instead, stock up on whole grains, fresh produce, and lean proteins. Fish and seafood are prime choices for protein options.
When you’re plating your meal, you should divide your plate into quarters and follow this rule. Fill a quarter of the plate with whole grains. Fill a quarter with your protein source. Fill the rest with fresh vegetables and fruit. Your dad will benefit from the same diet.
Find a Hobby You Enjoy
Find a hobby that eases your stress. You might find knitting relaxing. You might prefer to write out your frustrations and joys in a journal. Fishing, bicycling, baking, and painting are other hobbies people use to ease stress.
If you want a hobby that’s different from the norm, you could make paper. Learn calligraphy and turn your homemade paper into handcrafted birthday cards or wedding announcements.
Take an Hour to Yourself Every Day
Have one hour each day when you’re alone and doing things you enjoy. Go to bed an hour early and read a book without interruption. Get up an hour before others and enjoy your coffee, some fresh fruit, and read the news.
Arrange Respite Care at Least Once a Month
Take time off. Once a month or more, take a day off and do something fun. Go to the beach with your significant other or friends. Stay at home in your pajamas and watch movies all day.
Respite care is one of the most important elderly care services for your family. Your dad has the help he needs, and the rest of you have time to do things for yourselves. Call an elderly care agency to arrange to have caregivers step in while you take breaks.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering Elderly Care in Claremont, CA please contact the caring staff at Motherly Comfort Home Care, LLC today at (909) 610-3222