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As you and your spouse age, you’re both more likely to develop medical conditions that require daily elder care. You may find that your spouse needs extensive help with everyday needs including eating, hygiene, and mobility. If you’re called upon as a caregiver, here are a few tips to help you adjust to this change.

Elder Care Tips: How to Adjust When Caring for a Partner

1. Talk to Others

Elder care requires an investment of time and emotional energy, both of which can be tiring. You'll need emotional support from friends and loved ones who you can talk to about any struggles. A support group with other spouses or partners in the same situation can also help meet this need.

2. Make a Plan

Instead of addressing problems one by one as they arise, take time to create a long-term care plan for your spouse. Do some research on their health conditions and how they’re likely to progress. Decide what responsibilities you think you can take on, and which you'll need help with. Create a financial plan as well. This will help relieve uncertainty about the future.

3. Ask for Help

Elder CareCaregiving is a labor-intensive job, and caregiver burnout is a common problem. Remember that you can take a break when you need it. Many nursing homes and assisted living facilities provide short-term respite care to give you time to rest.

4. Take Care of Yourself

It's easy to let your spouse's needs take precedence and neglect your own. But you can't provide care for your loved one if you’re exhausted, ill, or overwhelmed. Make time for yourself. Ensure that you're eating, sleeping, and relaxing adequately, as well as caring for any medical conditions of your own.

5. Be More Than a Caregiver

Set aside some time to spend with your spouse that isn't centered around their physical and medical needs. Instead, do something fun together, or talk about topics that interest you. It's important to nurture your emotional connection, which can be strained by caregiving challenges. Also, let your spouse help you whenever and however they can, so there's a better balance of give and take between the two of you.

 

For extra help with your spouse or partner's elder care, contact WyndRidge Health & Rehabilitation Center in Crossville, TN. Their licensed facility offers personalized, compassionate, and dedicated care to the Cumberland County community, including 157 dually certified beds. Residents benefit from the presence of a full in-house medical team, including personal physicians, dietitians, and rehabilitation therapists. To schedule a tour of the facility today, call (931) 707-5687. Visit the website to learn more about their full list of services. 

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