Caring for a loved one with dementia places many demands on you as a caregiver. If the COVID-19 pandemic has added to the pressure you face as a caregiver; there are steps you can take to ensure your own well being so that you are able to meet the demands of caregiving while reducing anxiety and stress. The most important thing you can do is to establish a routine for your loved one that includes time for yourself. This simple and important task is fundamental to ensure you as a caregiver, and the person you are caring for, maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Amid the pandemic you will need to think creatively about your approach to the holistic wellbeing of you and your loved one. Start with the basics as you establish your routine, plan out sleep, meal, and medication times and keep them consistent. Using a white board will help you and you loved one stay on task. You do not need to plan out every hour of the day. Have an idea of a few things each day that are important to accomplish. To get some time for yourself you can schedule an independent activity for your loved one that engages their interests such as listening to music, looking through photo albums, or watching a nature show on TV.  During your loved one’s scheduled activity you can do something for yourself; walk on a treadmill, take a nice-long shower, or read a chapter of a book. 

Dementia is unpredictable and there will be good days and bad days. The interventions you try may be successful one day and not another. Keep track of what does and does not work for your situation. Keep doing your best and know that you are doing a good job!

Robin Ely, RN, DNP
Owner, Mind Matters, LLC

860.449.2903
801 Poquonnock Rd., Groton, CT 06340
860.395.7030
220 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook, CT 06475