#25 – What can I do to take care of myself?

Click here to see the prior item in this series:  Why do I feel so frustrated and guilty?

What can I do to take care of myself?

Taking care of yourself might seem like the last thing you should be thinking about, but you have to take care of yourself before you can take care of anyone else.

You might find some consolation or comfort in knowing that you are not alone. Consider joining a caregiver support group, either in your own community or online. Meeting other caregivers can relieve your sense of isolation and will give you a chance to exchange stories and ideas. Support groups can be a great resource and a way to learn caregiving tips and techniques that work—even from afar. Some people find the camaraderie and companionship helpful.

Perhaps an online support group is more your style. By focusing on what you have been able to contribute, you may be able to free yourself from some of the worry. The Eldercare Locator may be able to help you find a local group.   The Eldercare Locator, a service of the Administration on Aging, works through local and state Area Agencies on Aging. You can contact the Eldercare Locator at www.eldercare.gov or call 1-800-677-1116 toll-free.  They might have information about nutrition programs, preventive health services, elder rights and support services for older people and their caregivers that are available in your area.

Click here to see the next item in this series:  It’s time for me to become more involved in my mom’s life.   What are the most important points to remember as I begin?

Acorn wishes to acknowledge the National Institute on Aging for this valuable content.

Within Acorn’s service area of Chapel Hill, Durham and surrounding areas in North Carolina (Hillsborough, Pittsboro, Morrisville, Cary, and Apex) the following resources may be especially helpful:

• Orange County Department on Aging, 2551 Homestead Road, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27516, (919) 968-2070
• Durham Center for Senior Life, 406 Rigsbee Avenue – Suite 202, Durham, North Carolina   27701, (919) 688-8247
• Chatham County Council on Aging, 365 North Carolina 87, Pittsboro, North Carolina   27312, (919) 542-4512
• Triangle J Area Agency on Aging, 4307 Emperor Boulevard
- Suite 110, Durham, NC 27703, 919-558-2711
• Resources for Seniors (Wake County), 1110 Navaho Dr.  – Suite 400, Raleigh, NC 27609, 919-872-7933