It’s a constant juggle to take care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s and also maintain a full-time job. The stress and exhaustion of caregiving can impact the caregiver’s personal and professional life. As a caregiver, it is important to remember that your self-care is equally important as the care you provide your loved ones.

In this blog, we will outline some strategies and tools to help you navigate work-life balance while caring for someone with Alzheimer’s.

Schedule and Prioritize

Managing time is crucial when it comes to balancing caregiving and work, and the need to plan, set goals and prioritize daily tasks is critical to creating this balance. Start by creating a schedule that allows for flexibility, including time slots for caregiving tasks and time for work-related activities. Prioritize your most important tasks for each day and try to get them done first.

Seek Support

Caregiving can be a solitary experience, and it’s easy to feel isolated and overwhelmed. It’s essential to have support from others who can help share the burden. Contact friends and family members who can lend you a hand or provide emotional support. Look for local caregiver support groups where you can meet other caregivers dealing with similar challenges. Don’t forget to visit your Uprise Health EAP care navigator for assistance in connecting with groups locally.

Take Care of Your Health

It’s easy to put your own physical and emotional wellness on the back burner when caring for a loved one. But taking care of yourself is vital for maintaining your energy and resilience. Try to eat healthily, stay hydrated, and get enough rest. Exercise regularly, even if it’s just a few minutes a day, as it can help release stress and tension.

Set Realistic Expectations

It’s easy to become overwhelmed when caregiving, and being honest about what you can realistically handle is important. Avoid overcommitting and become comfortable with saying no when necessary. Letting go of perfectionism and embracing the imperfections of caregiving can reduce anxiety and stress levels.

Consider Professional Help

There are instances when you may need professional help to manage the care of your loved one with Alzheimer’s. A professional caregiver can be hired a few hours a day, or more if necessary, so you can focus on work or attend to your needs. Consider utilizing respite care for a short break, which can be a refreshing and beneficial escape from your caregiving responsibilities.

It’s easy to feel alone and overstressed while balancing caregiving and work. Remember, you are not alone in this situation. Setting realistic expectations for yourself, getting the help you need, and communicating your needs to your employer, co-workers, and family members is essential. Above all else, take care of your health and well-being. With a bit of planning, support from others, and a commitment to self-care, you can successfully navigate work-life balance while caring for someone with Alzheimer’s.

We’re here to help navigate work-life balance concerns for Alzheimer’s caregivers. If you’re caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, visit our resources page to find resources to help you manage stress, be more mindful, and take time for yourself. Visit the resource center today!