Easing Caregiver Stress with a Mini-Vacation

Caregivers in Fishers, IN

Caregivers in Fishers IN

Taking a vacation may seem like one of those things that you had to cross off of your list of possibilities when you made the decision to take on the role as caregiver for your seniors. You put so much time and energy into your aging loved ones’ care that you think getting away for a trip is not only out of the question because it would leave your parents without the care that they need in order to stay safe and healthy, but also that doing something like this for yourself would seem selfish.

When it comes to being a caregiver, it is important to remember that sometimes, being selfish is not only perfectly acceptable, it is essential to protecting your health and wellbeing. The role of a family caregiver is exceptionally stressful and fully immersing yourself in all of the responsibilities, tasks, and challenges associated with caring for your parents as well as your children, your marriage, your home, and your career can put you at higher risk of physical, mental, and emotional consequences. Taking time to relax, focus on yourself and your other relationships, and have fun does not mean that you do not love your elderly parents or that you are not dedicated to your role as their caregiver. It simply means that you are protecting yourself and ensuring your own quality of life.

Studies have shown that taking a vacation is a powerful way to ease stress, but that just one long vacation during the year may not be the way to go. Instead, experts recommend taking mini-vacations throughout the year. Some of the reasons why choosing shorter vacations may be the optimal way for you to get away, rest your mind and body, and rejuvenate your caregiver spirit include:

• The actual act of planning the vacation and looking forward to it are shown to reduce stress and boost your mood. Enjoying mini-vacations throughout the year let you enjoy this planning more than once

• Mini-vacations are considerably less expensive than longer vacations, meaning they are more accessible, can happen on shorter notice, and you will not feel stressed about the money you are spending on your getaway

• While planning a vacation is enjoyable in of itself, taking a spontaneous trip is exciting and instantly lifts your spirits. A mini-vacation is perfect for spontaneity, allowing you to take off on an overnight or two-night trip on just a day or two of notice

• Only being away for a few days means you will not worry as much about the responsibilities and obligations you leave at home, including your parents and your career

• Taking a mini-vacation is a wonderful way to reconnect with your spouse and your children in a way that is totally separate from your usual routine, which fosters more conversation, greater quality time, and lasting memories.

If you are considering taking advantage of the stress-relieving benefits of a mini-vacation, get in touch with GreatCare of Indianapolis to discuss hiring respite care for your seniors. Whether they need assistance for a few hours or 24 hours a day, you can arrange a schedule that ensure they are safe and comfortable while you are gone.

The professionals at Great Care are available to talk with you and your family about all of your home care needs. Great Care is a non medical in-home care agency providing quality and affordable caregivers in Fishers, IN and the surrounding areas. Call (317) 595-9933 for more information.

About Julie Sullivan

Julie Sullivan is the Owner at GreatCare of Indianapolis IN.
GreatCare is a licensed, personal services agency, providing in-home care services to the Indianapolis, Indiana and surrounding areas. We serve the personal health and daily care needs of seniors or individuals who prefer to stay at home, but require assistance with everyday activities, such as dressing, personal hygiene, meal preparation, laundry or errands. Our team of certified nurse aids and home health aids can provide you with personalized, in-home care services to meet your needs, including:
Daytime hourly in-home care
Temporary or post-hospital respite care
24-hour, around-the-clock home care
Morning and evening care
Overnight / Slumber care
In addition, we offer our Care Compass service, to assist in setting the course for the next stage in your loved ones life. We guide you through the currents of aging, and help you find your true north. Our licensed nurses, with experience in hospice and geriatric care, will help guide you through the complex and often sensitive journey of selecting an in-home care service, and will provide a smooth transition to a new way of life for your loved one, without the anxiety and fear.

Our current nursing and management team has more than 75 years of combined experience in the home healthcare services industry. All of our caregivers are bonded, insured and screened thoroughly, so you know you’ll be receiving the greatest care possible. That’s why we stand by our mission: to deliver the same, quality care we expect for ourselves and our loved ones.
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