Caregivers: Do S’More for Yourself

By Becky Meisenheimer, CDP® CMDCP®, Dementia Education Coordinator

As summer rolls in with its sunshine, longer days and barbeques, memories of pastime adventures like camping come to mind, and more importantly, the favorite campfire treat known as the s’more. Almost everyone has done a campout sometime in their life and made the unique camping dessert at least once or twice in their lifetime. In reflecting on those times and this delicious treat, it should inspire those of you who are caring for a loved one and/or friend to layer your priorities for both your wellbeing and theirs.

Think of the first layer of graham cracker as the foundation. We have talked numerous times about the importance of respite care. Of finding ways to involve other family members or friends to give you, as a care partner, some much needed rest. This may also include professional assistance from a homecare agency or an adult day care service.

The chocolate layer represents what may seem like a decadent treat of finding time to do the things that give you pleasure like going for a walk, working on hobbies, a dinner out, or going to a movie with a friend. If leaving the home is difficult, set up regularly scheduled virtual calls with family and friends to stay connected. Even a few minutes of conversation can be beneficial.

The gooey roasted marshmallow layer is a reminder to maintain social connections with others who understand your journey. Those who are in the sticky part of daily caregiving. As you hear often from those caring for others, no one understands what caregiving means to you until they live a day or two in your shoes. Surrounding yourself with others who are also caring for someone gives opportunities to share experiences, concerns, and feelings without any judgement. Isolating yourself will only bring loneliness and possibly resentment.

Support groups, social media connections and scheduled phone calls with other care partners allows you to address any of your physical and emotional health concerns, prevents depression caused by seclusion, leads to less sleep deprivation, and even reduce your risk of premature death.

The top layer of graham cracker seals the package. A reminder that you are not the only one going through this journey. It is also a good reminder that you should do those activities you enjoy, go to those social engagements you look forward to, and to maintain your healthy habits such as getting plenty of rest, eating nutritious meals and partaking in consistent exercise.

Staying social does not necessarily mean it has to be time consuming. Nor does staying social mean you are negligent of your caregiving duties. Even an hour a week of socialization can make a difference for you, which ultimately makes a difference for those you are taking care of. For more information about face-to-face Care Partners Support Groups, call Allies in Aging at (406) 259-9666.

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