Spring is finally here – and if you’re a caregiver, you may be asking yourself, “wasn’t it just Christmas a minute ago?” We’re not sure how it happens every single year, but the arrival of springtime can sometimes seem like a surprise after months of winter.
“Spring is a welcome change from cold temps and gloomy days, but for many of us, spring also means a jump-start to our year and a lot more tasks on our to-do lists,” says Addie Ricci, Executive Director at Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk, located in Norwalk, CT. “Most of us automatically think of spring cleaning, which is important to do, of course. But why not focus that effort inward instead of outward and take the time to recharge and reset?”
This is particularly important for dementia caregivers, says Addie, who may be already starting to feel burnout from a stressful beginning to the year. Caregivers to loved ones with dementia frequently report experiencing high levels of stress, anxiety, depression and other draining feelings or emotions. Too much stress can lead to burnout, which can be harmful to both you as a caregiver and to your loved one.
“After being cooped up in the house with your loved one for months on end, you may be feeling exhausted, stressed and overwhelmed at everything you have to do,” she says. “Instead, take a breath – spring is the perfect time for you to take a look at your routine, see what changes you can make and implement some habits and practical solutions that will help you achieve balance in spring, summer and beyond.”
Why Spring Is the Perfect Time to Recharge and Reset
So – why spring? Usually when we think of “new schedules, we think of New Year’s resolutions, right? Well, spring is actually a better time to make those changes – simply because the changing season makes it easier, psychologically.
“It’s a lot easier to make changes when things in your world are changing as well,” says Addie. “Spring naturally brings a lot of changes both in nature and in our communities. It’s easier to get outside because the weather is nicer and days are longer. People are beginning to beautify their landscaping and make renovations to the house.”
Spring also makes it easier to adapt your loved one’s routine, which is something that has to be done with care and foresight, says Addie. “Routine is very important for people with dementia, but the changing seasons can make it a little easier because it’s a more natural shift,” she says. “Spring can bring up old memories of years past for your loved one with dementia. Plus, there are many fun activities that are related to the season, like birdwatching, gardening and others. As you’re making changes to their schedule, take the time to make changes to yours, as well.”
Here are some steps caregivers can take to organize their schedules for spring and find ways to recharge, reset and refocus on taking care of themselves as well as their senior loved ones.
Take a hard look at your schedule.
The first step towards achieving balance in your life is taking a look at everything that’s currently on your plate. Sit down with your calendar and go through everything you have to accomplish in a day, week and month. Focus particularly on the daily and weekly tasks – these are the “little things” that become automatic and can easily fill up every second of your day. Don’t just focus on the things you need to do for your loved one – think about the things you need to do for yourself or the rest of your family, too. You may wish to enlist a friend or family member to help you out and note down things that you may have missed or don’t think about.
Get real about what you can do – and what you can outsource.
Having all your to-dos written out can be overwhelming. We understand! But don’t let your long list of things paralyze you. This is an opportunity for you to look at your routine and see what can be done to help you streamline your day, ask for help and get rid of roadblocks or challenges that are keeping you from doing things for yourself. For example, are there adult day care solutions or hired caregivers you can use several times a week in order to care for your loved one and give you some time to take care of personal things? Are there tasks (like cleaning the house or shuttling kids to and from practices) that you can outsource or even give up? Can you use grocery delivery services or other 21st-century services to gain back some time? Remember, you don’t have to do everything for everyone – you’re super, but not a superhero.
Schedule time – really schedule it! – for yourself.
Self-care is just as important as caring for your loved one. Instead of trying to squeeze it into your spare time when you can (let’s be honest, you don’t really have a lot of spare time), actively make space on your calendar for “me time.” Make sure you do a little bit every day – and also find time to do “lengthy” breaks every month or so. Taking the time to do things for yourself will help you be a healthier and happier caregiver – and person.
Reset your thinking and be present in the moment.
As a caregiver, you are your own worst critic. It’s common to experience negative thoughts, such as “I’m not doing enough,” or “other people are managing this better than me,” or “I’m not the caregiver my loved one deserves.” Take this time to “spring clean” those negative emotions and feelings and actively change your thinking when you hear those Negative Nellies in your head. Instead of beating yourself up for what you aren’t doing, praise yourself and list the things that you are doing. You don’t have to be a perfect caregiver, because that’s impossible. You are doing the best job possible, which is admirable. Remember, your mind tends to believe what you tell it!
Another way to refocus your thinking is by stopping your mind when you feel yourself starting to worry or “spin out” about things that could happen in the future. Looking ahead is important, but it’s just as important to be present in the moment and allow yourself the grace to experience calm. By taking a breath and allowing you to experience things in the moment – the feel of sunlight on your face, focusing on your breathing – your stress levels will automatically decrease and you will experience a greater sense of calm … all things that will help you move forward in a positive, confident way this spring.
Expert, Life-Enriching Memory Care
Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk provides memory care assisted living that is comfortable, positive and engaging. Exclusively dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, our community promotes a wellness-focused lifestyle that emphasizes dignity and individual preferences. Our memory care professionals receive specialized, ongoing training designed to help residents maximize their independence in a secure, calm environment – making a truly positive impact on the lives of our residents.
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Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk’s services are designed to recognize and adapt to the unique challenges and individuality of each resident, while ensuring comfort and safety. We believe in a full-service approach to care and provide personalized attention and programming for residents in every stage of memory loss.
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Within a beautiful residential design, Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk provides everything residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia need to enjoy comfort, familiarity and security. Soft colors, directional cues, aromatherapy and interactive life stations create a soothing and secure environment where residents feel at home.
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