Increasing Your Well Being in 2012


As a family caregiver, you think beyond your own needs and put the welfare of your loved one above your own.  At SYNERGY HomeCare, we commend your daily selflessness, and want to provide you with the tools you need to have a healthy and happy life in 2012.

When you care for your loved one, you take on the role of caregiver and look for ways to improve the well being of the person you serve. You ask yourself questions like, “Does my loved one look and act healthy?”  “What can I do to help them be healthier and happier?”   “Is their home clean and safe?”  “How will I improve my loved one’s life?”

Just as you are committed to the health, safety and happiness of your loved one, SYNERGY HomeCare is dedicated to helping you improve your overall well being. This year, we will cover a wide variety of topics that will provide advice and comfort to family caregivers like you who care for loved ones with cardiovascular problems, conditions that require medical attention, and  Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.  We will also cover long distance caregiving, safety inside and outside the home, and caring for elderly family members.

This newsletter is a great preview to the helpful information we will feature on theArms Around Family Caregivers blog, email newsletter, and Facebook page. This time of year is a great time to set goals, and we would like you to set aside the time and energy to care for yourself as well as your loved one.

4 Ways to Improve your Well Being in 2012

Eat lean, nutritious foods

Whether you want to lose weight or lower your cholesterol, or get stronger, your diet will make all the difference.  Eating healthier is a great habit to adopt, and is easy to incorporate into your caregiving routine.  When you eat healthy foods, it is more likely that your loved one will eat healthy foods as well.

Exercise more

Committing to an exercise routine is a great way to increase blood flow, boost mood-lifting endorphins and keep a healthy heart. If you need a place to go for respite, exercising at the gym might be a good option for you.  However, if you do not feel comfortable leaving your loved one alone, clear a space in your home for physical activity.  Yoga, pilates and even aerobic exercise are cheap, easy ways to stay fit in the home.

Be Safe

Having a hazard-free home will decrease the risk of falls, burns, cuts and other common accidents. Clear obstructions from walkways, and get slip-free flooring. Keep potentially dangerous objects like knives, razors and irons in secure cupboards or drawers.

Socialize

Many family caregivers forego time with friends, family, and even children to care for their loved one.  If you find yourself in this situation, keep in mind that being alone can lead to depression. Make more time for old friends, and try to meet new people.  If you do not want to leave your loved one, invite friends and family to play board games or to have a healthy dinner at your home.

We look forward to another year of supporting family caregivers like you.  If you have any questions about family caregiving or respite care, contact us today at our Facebook page, or (877) 230-0875.