10 Exceptional Habits Of Happy Caregivers

I happened to meet a caregiver of a senior during one of my flights; as we conversed I came to understand that she was an exceptional caregiver and also managed to care for her well. She was able to avoid a burnout and serious health problems. She never sacrificed herself for the sake of her job and avoided side effects of care giving like general burnout, self-neglect, depression, family conflicts and more.

10 habits happy caregivers practice to ensure their health and wellness:

 
First: They nurture their mind and body.  

Caregivers replenish themselves physically and mentally; they concentrate on their well being by taking part in exercise, educational and relaxation activities in camps like Camp Reveille. It was found recently that every 1 out of 2 attendees to such camps were caregivers.

Second: They find support. 

Happy caregivers take time to vent out with friends and family; they may also alternatively consider a visit to a counselor whom they can rely on to sort out their frustrations.

Third: They keep an eye on their health.

According to a survey about 70% of the caregivers are sick with some type of health issue, with 50% dying before the person they give care for; this calls for considering their health also as a priority.

Fourth: They do regular exercise. 

Exercise is good for the body and the mind; happy caregivers stay active physically and exercise to reduce stress and improve mood. Exercise is the most ideal way to ward off health issues and diseases that could put a caregiver’s job at risk.

Fifth: They eat healthy.

Happy caregivers realize that a nutritious diet keeps energy levels up and health risks at bay; they would prepare low-fat meals and snacks that incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables, and enjoying them with the senior, as a part of the job.

Sixth: Happy caregivers meditate

Happy caregivers consider doing activities like yoga, meditation, deep breathing and music that not only help them relax mentally, but also helps them slow down and put things into perspective.

Seventh: They keep a journal to pen down frustrations and achievements.

Penning down frustrations allows them to release negativity, while writing down achievements helps them get inspiration for the next day.

Eighth: They set personal goals.

Happy caregivers set and write down personal goals like a class, a new hobby, a vacation, whatever the dream that reminds them of what they wish to achieve outside their job.

Ninth: They are grateful

Caregivers of elders happily face the challenges and stress of their job with being grateful they are making the life of a person easier and enjoyable; it could be a last chance to spend time with a loved one who’s near the end.

The tenth and last habit: They take a day off. 

Happy caregivers take some time off to focus on themselves and their goal when friends and family members should fill in for them on a regular basis.

Lastly happy caregivers practice good habits in self-care and see the benefits when it comes to caring for others; so do the seniors they care for each day.

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