2023 Self-Care Resolutions for Those Receiving In-Home Care

Individuals and families seek out the help of in-home caregivers for a wide variety of reasons. Whether living with chronic illness, recovering from surgery, or learning new routines to maintain independence while aging, caregivers offer needed relief for many people, young and old. Many times, however, the transition to in-home care can be difficult. Our loved ones may feel overwhelmed or defeated with their new circumstances, but with our support and some informed self-care techniques, we can make the transition easier.

Join our team of nonmedical, in-home care specialists as we explore a few self-care goals for 2023 that can help improve the quality of life for our loved ones working to maintain independence.

Embrace Healthy Habits

According to the American Psychological Association, exercising regularly, eating well, avoiding alcohol and drugs, limiting news consumption, and keeping busy are the best coping mechanisms for managing stress. This, of course, is easier said than done, especially when you require additional help from a caregiver.

Instead of getting caught up in all-or-nothing thinking, let’s approach 2023 with a gentle attitude towards our current habits. With support from family and friends, you and your caregiver can focus on making small changes that last, rather than big changes that do not. Work with your loved one and their caregiver to identify some easy and fun ways to live a more healthful lifestyle.

Try a few of these healthier options for 2023:

• Add a 15-minute walk to your routine, three times a week, or whenever your caregiver is present to help.
• Try one new recipe a week to practice fine motor skills in the kitchen while building stronger relationships with healthy food. Your caregiver can help with groceries and food prep!
• Find new ways to get fresh air – try picking up an easy new outdoor hobby like birdwatching or sketching landscapes that allow you to enjoy the outdoors in short bursts.
• Add gentle stretches to your daily routine with the help of your caregiver. There are many effective stretches that can be done while seated or lying down to make it easier.

For more information on developing healthy habits for seniors, check these helpful articles by our care team:

Improving the Lives of Seniors Through Healthy Habits

Find out why routines are an integral part of healthy aging and how you can set yourself up for success with a few healthy habits.

At Home Exercises for Seniors

Learn how to improve day-to-day function through simple exercise.

Put a Priority on Your Mental Health

The American Psychological Association also explains that loneliness can impact your physical health by raising blood pressure, lowering immune function, and ultimately increasing the risk of mortality. As the new year approaches, work with your loved one and their caregiver to create new ways to stay connected.

Here are a few ways you can work on your mental health in 2023:

• Work with their caregiver to set up new ways to communicate with friends and loved ones including video chat on platforms like Zoom or Facetime. Schedule a weekly call and stick to it.
• Find local or remote interest groups that your loved one can participate in either in person or virtually. Look for groups that cater to their interests like book clubs, online film groups, interactive cooking courses, or nature enthusiast groups. The internet is wide-reaching and there are social groups for everyone.
• Limit news intake to a predetermined number of minutes each day to limit exposure to negative content
• Work with their caregiver to find professional mental health help like support groups, counselors, or therapists

Explore these helpful articles by our care team to find new ways to improve your mental health habits this year:

Self-Care is For Everyone

Join our care team as we explore different types of self-care practices to help you age well, live well, and feel well.

ameriCARE’s Resources for Better Engagement

Advice, resources, and guidance from our expert caregivers to help you on your journey to more engaging and meaningful relationships with your aging loved ones.

Get the Help You Deserve

As 2023 approaches, we encourage you and your loved ones to take things slowly. Remember, it was the tortoise that won the race. Be kind to yourselves and make time to take care of you! If you are interested in getting a little extra in-home help for you or a loved one, reach out to your local ameriCARE to find the right fit!