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What Are the Best Ways to Make Sure that You Have Time for Yourself

Woman readingAs a family caregiver, you might believe that you don't really have any way to take time for you. The trick is to schedule your time so that you can make that time for yourself.

Schedule Time for Yourself into Your Calendar

Sit down with your calendar and choose some time that you can set aside just for you. Pick a larger block of time once a week and pick a smaller block of time every day. The larger block may only be an hour or two, while the smaller blocks of time might be as small as five minutes each day. The key is to block out this time as an appointment with yourself.

Keep Your Appointments with Yourself

Now that you know when you've made these appointments with yourself, it's non-negotiable that you keep them. Barring emergencies, this time is just as important as any appointment that you would make with anyone else. If you're having a difficult time picturing this as an important appointment, let a friend know that you need an accountability buddy to make sure you keep your date with yourself.

Line up Backups for Your Backup

When you've got your appointments squared away, it's time to set up coverage for your elderly loved one. You might want to enlist the help of home care providers, other family members, or even friends who can take over for you while you keep your important appointment with yourself. Keep in mind that emergencies do happen, so it's a good idea to get potential backup coverage for your initial backup.

Take the Time, Even if You Think You Don't Need It

At some point, you might start to believe that you don't really need your time to yourself and you'll be tempted to cancel your standing appointments with yourself. Avoid that temptation, though, because even if you think you no longer need it, you do. It will benefit both you and your elderly loved one for you to have that time away.

As you become more accustomed to having this time for yourself, you'll find even more ways to ensure that you protect it.

IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING CAREGIVERS IN WELLESLEY, MA, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT HOME HELPERS TODAY. CALL NOW (508) 952-6219.

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