PREMIERING NOW!!
Part 2 of 2 :Caregiving does NOT change for Holidays 🌲🕯️🕎.HOW Can it STILL be Fun ,Festive & HAPPY🥳?
#familycaregivers #holidayseason #holidays #respitecare #familysupport #emotionalhealth #familydynamics #dementiacare #dementiasupport
Holidays💝🎄🕯️🕎 can be an ESPECIALLY challenging time for Family Caregivers- the gatherings, requests to join festivities, to decorate, all the while--- EVERDAY IS THE SAME.
WHY?: Because Dementia and Caregiving do NOT miraculously STOP because it is Festive time!
The daily tasks MUST continue.
In order to mage and still feel a part of it all, and avoid unnecessary fatigue and possible tension within the family, here is PART 2- 5 MORE suggestions! 💥💥💯)
👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽
6. Maintain Routine
Disruption to a daily schedule can be stressful for anyone, especially those with cognitive or medical needs. Stick as closely as possible to regular mealtimes, medication schedules, and bedtime rituals.
7. Mind the Sensory Overload
Be aware that bright lights, loud music, strong scents (like pine or potpourri), and excessive visitors can cause confusion, anxiety, or distress. Adjust the environment to keep it calm and predictable.
8. Embrace Technology and Short Visits
If travel is too difficult, use video calls (like Zoom or FaceTime) to connect with distant family. When hosting, encourage guests to visit in small groups and for shorter durations rather than all at once.
9. Practice Self-Care (Non-Negotiable)
Schedule at least 15-30 minutes of "me time" every day. This could be listening to music, reading, or taking a walk. Taking care of your own mental and physical health is the most important gift you can give yourself and your loved one.
10. Seek Joy in the Small Moments
The holidays don't have to be perfect. Try to focus on the meaning and connection rather than the elaborate plans. A simple cup of cocoa together or a moment of quiet reflection can be more fulfilling than a perfect holiday feast.
I hope these tips help you navigate the season with grace and peace.
You got this!
One day/hour at a time
From my heart to yours💗
Dr. Lana
Caregiving does NOT Change for the Holidays🎄🕯️🕎. HOW Can it STILL be Fun, Festive & HAPPY🥳?
#familycaregivers #holidayseason #holidays #respitecare #familysupport #emotionalhealth #familydynamics #dementiacare #dementiasupport
Holidays💝🎄🕯️🕎 can be an ESPECIALLY challenging time for Family Caregivers- the gatherings, requests to join festivities, to decorate, all the while--- EVERDAY IS THE SAME.
WHY?: Because Dementia and Caregiving do NOT miraculously STOP because it is Festive time!
The daily tasks MUST continue.
In order to mage and still feel a part of it all, and avoid unnecessary fatigue and possible tension within the family, here are 5 suggestions for now.
(We will explore another 5 next week! 💥💥💯)
1. Prioritize and Simplify Traditions
Don't feel pressure to maintain every past tradition. Focus on one or two most meaningful activities (like driving to see lights or listening to music) and let the rest go. Simplify decorations and meal preparation.
2. Manage Expectations (Yours and Others')
Be realistic about what you and your loved one can handle. It's okay to say "no" to large gatherings or to host for a shorter period. Communicate any limitations to family and friends early on.
3. Schedule Respite Care
The holidays are busy, and you need a break. Arrange for professional or volunteer respite care, even if it's just for a few hours to wrap presents or attend a small party. Don't wait until you're exhausted.
4. Create a Quiet/Safe Space
If you attend or host a party, designate a quiet, low-stimulus room where your loved one (and you!) can retreat when the noise and activity become overwhelming.
5. Delegate Specific Tasks
When friends or family ask, "How can I help?", have a specific list ready. Ask for help with grocery shopping, setting the table, wrapping gifts, or spending time with your loved one while you rest.
You got this!
One day/hour at a time
From my heart to yours💗
Dr. Lana
Overwhelmed? Let's connect: 📧lana@lanaannemd.com
Compassion Fatigue What is it? Is this YOU?#compassionfatigue #caregiverburnout #familycaregivers #emotionalhealth #emotionalrollercoasters #anxietyanddepression #familydynamics #dementiacare #dementiasupport #seekhelp
You have cared and cared, and taken care of- and now you can care NO MORE!😩😩
COMPASSION FATIGUE may be defined this way:
"When a caregiver takes on the emotional stress and trauma of a person within their care. It causes a lack of empathy (understanding the feelings and situations of someone else) or a lack of care for the person within your care."
Some signs and symptoms:
4 PHYSICAL:
1/🕯️Changes in sleep patterns - especially unable to get or stay asleep
2/🕯️ Physical exhaustion- you feel listless
3/ 🕯️Changes in appetite and/or weight. (increased or decreased)
4/ 🕯️Unexplained headaches- notably. a throbbing" sensation top, sides or forehead
4 EMOTIONAL
1/ 🕯️Withdrawal from friends, family and other loved ones - you just don't want to talk to anyone - you DISCONNECT, especially if you feel no one cares
2/🕯️Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed - don't have the energy to care
3/ 🕯️Feeling hopeless and helpless, irritable; (and yes, even resentment towards the person you care for angry, sad, guilty😡😤😒🥹
4/ 🕯️You self-neglect in many ways - you may see no point, or could not care for how people see you- it doesn't matter😔
What CAN you do?
4 WAYS TO COPE:
1/ 😊Be AWARE of your feelings- it happens- it's normal ; NOTHING is "wrong with you"💓
2/ 😊🫂TALK- share how you feel with a trusted friend who maybe able to offer suggestions , or even practical assistance. The BEST "Listener " is GOD, -pray and pray and pray!
3/ 💃🏽🚶🏽🏃🏽🎽👟EXERCISE- even 5 minutes a day- go to the bathroom just to take some deep breaths!
4/ 😊🫂CONNECT! with friends- Facetime, a phone call, or invite for a cup of tea- whatever you do , you need to be with "your tribe"
💥💥Call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (U.S.). Someone is available to help you 24/7. Seek your local hotline crisis centre if you feel so overwhelmed that you are considering self harm.
When you have been thrust into this role and feel that all your best efforts at the daily grind is more than you can bear, compassion fatigue is a condition that NEEDS help; it is more than just "feeling tired".
The "superhero cape" needs to come off and it's time for YOU.
You got this!
One day/hour at a time
From my heart to yours💗
Dr. Lana
