Elders
and Caregivers
Taking Care of You
Caring for someone can sometimes be overwhelming. As you well know, it can be physically demanding, emotionally draining and cause stress and conflict when combined with other major responsibilities. So, it’s critical for you to take care of your own physical and mental health -- first. This section contains some important ideas and resources for maintaining your health, managing your stress and achieving good nutrition.
Maintaining Your Health
Taking care of your health is important, no matter what your age. This is especially true for caregivers who often overlook their own health needs as they care for loved ones. The section below is just for you! Take a few moments to read through the basic health tips and special health conditions highlighted in this section for a healthier you!
http://www.healthfinder.gov/
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/healthyliving.html
MANAGING YOUR STRESS
Caregiving can be stressful in its own right, but especially so when other priorities are competing for your attention. Left unmanged, stress can lead to health problems including depression, substance abuse, and chronic health conditions. The information in this section will raise your awareness about stress and provide you with a collection of ideas and tools to help keep your stress under control.
Caregiver Stress
http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/caregiver.htm
Anxiety:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/anxiety.html
Depression:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/depression.html
ACHIEVING GOOD NUTRITION
Eating right is just as important for you as it is for the person that you care for. It also gives you the energy you need to help ward off disease. The information in this section offers suggestions for achieving healthy nutritional habits. .
Food and Nutrition Information Center
http://www.nalusda.gov/fnic/
Dietary Guidelines for Americans
http://www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/
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