Your parent’s dementia is difficult to cope with. Even if you’re not a full-time caregiver, the stress and worry can quickly overwhelm you. This is why it’s essential to take time to care for yourself. By prioritizing your own physical and mental health, you’ll be in a better place to maintain a good, beneficial relationship with your loved one.

How to Manage Dementia Caregiver Stress

1. Prioritize Exercise

Physical exercise helps alleviate stress by releasing endorphins, which are a natural mood-booster. It helps you sleep better and leaves you feeling refreshed with higher energy levels.

Try to fit in 10 to 30 minutes of exercise each day. Even if you don’t have a gym membership, going on a walk or taking a dance class can be an effective way to get moving.

2. Join a Support Group

You’re not alone in your experience. There are many others out there who also have parents with dementia, and you can help one another.

Join a support group for a safe place to share your feelings, get advice, and feel good about supporting others as well.

3. Schedule a Break

When you start feeling overwhelmed, it’s time to take a step back and focus on yourself. Schedule a vacation where you don’t have any responsibilities with your parent or children.

If you can’t get that much time off from your responsibilities, simply take a day to do something you love or relax with a spa day. Even a short break allows you to recharge so you’ll come back energized and ready to provide care once again.

The dementia care professionals at Olive Branch Estates understand that the right support system is essential. This memory care community in Chaska, MN, specializes in helping people with Alzheimer’s and dementia. You can rest assured that your parent is in compassionate hands with a private living space, community room, 24-hour staff access, housekeeping, and meal assistance. Learn more online and call (952) 448-4800 to schedule a tour.