If you are not focusing on self-care first and your mom’s care next, you risk your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It’s so important to take care of yourself to ensure you’re healthy enough to take care of your mom.
As hard as it might be, go for a yearly health exam with your doctor. It’s how you’ll find any health issues in the earliest stages. You might discover the reason you always feel so drained is that poor dietary habits have led to anemia. You may have high blood pressure and need to address that.
At the age of 45, your doctor may recommend having your first colonoscopy. That’s the best way to find and remove polyps that can turn into colon cancer. For a woman, mammograms are recommended at 40, and dense breast tissue may require you to have an ultrasound, too.
Blood tests check cholesterol and if your calcium, potassium, sodium, etc. levels are too low or too high. They can also determine if you have prediabetes or liver issues.
Remember that most doctors now are less concerned if you’re overweight or haven’t been to the doctor for years. They want to make you feel comfortable and work on improving how you feel about yourself. It’s a different experience than it used to be, so don’t let fear keep you from going.
Choose foods that nourish your body. You need to have enough protein, calcium, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. If you have a hard time cooking meals at the end of a busy day, consider meal prep on the weekend so that you have meals that are ready to grab and eat.
Take time each week to visit friends or go out with your partner, children, or other family members. Socialization is important for your health, so don’t allow your mom’s care needs to overshadow your relationships.
If your social circle has gotten smaller, volunteer or attend caregiver support groups to make new friends. You want to surround yourself with people who understand what it’s like to care for a parent or elderly relative.
Don’t ignore your care needs as you focus on your mom. It’s normal to want to prioritize her household chores, appointments, meals, and personal care, but you can’t lose track of your own. Respite care helps with this.
Ask a home care assistance expert about respite care services. You’re able to take a break while your mom isn’t alone and struggling to take care of herself. The right home care assistance schedule ensures you have time to focus on self-care first and your mom’s care after that.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering home care assistance in Mamaroneck, NY, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts at Home – Manhattan, Brooklyn, Westchester, Queens, Rockland today. 212-201-6139
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