Most caregivers devote themselves to providing continuous, round-the-clock care for their loved ones, remaining in their presence constantly, even residing with them. However, this can make it challenging for caregivers to find extended periods of alone time.
Depending on the severity of an ailment, illness, or disease, some patients require various tasks such as eating, bathing, light exercise, and medication administration. As a caregiver, you know these responsibilities can consume a significant portion of your typical day.
When your daily interactions revolve solely around your loved one, it can gradually take a toll on your well-being. Without some form of break, caregivers can experience feelings of depression and loneliness. Although it may be difficult to seek assistance, you need to acknowledge the importance of taking breaks for your own well-being. Let’s look at some ways you can overcome your lack of privacy and alone time.
Many caregivers find that engaging in social groups can alleviate a sense of isolation and provide support, feedback, and encouragement. With numerous groups available, it is essential to find one that suits both your preferences and schedule. Keep in mind that you don’t have to limit yourself to exclusively caregiver-specific groups. While joining a caregiver support group can be beneficial, exploring other options such as hobby, exercise, church, or interest-based groups can bring fulfillment and add a little more enjoyment to your life.You can explore local groups for in-person connections or opt for online groups if physical attendance is challenging.
If you are interested in finding a caregiver support group, Neighbors Who Care provides a weekly support group exclusively for caregivers. Led by our in-house Care Manager Bonnie, these sessions offer a safe space for caregivers to gather, share their challenges, and listen to the stories of others in similar situations.
Another resource is our local Area Agency on Aging which helps older Arizonans by offering a variety of programs and services that enhance the quality of life for residents of Maricopa County. Additionally, there are several online and offline communities worth exploring, such as Meetup, Reddit, Mighty Networks, Discord, as well as Facebook Groups.
Establishing boundaries is essential for a healthy caregiving environment, and it can play a significant role in creating privacy and personal downtime.
Here are a few ideas to consider:
Refrain from entering or kindly request a knock before entering a room where the door is closed. This could be a bedroom, office, patio, laundry room or even a walk-in closet.
Depending on your specific circumstances, you might find it helpful to hang a sign on the door to communicate the need for privacy. This boundary can help protect your personal space and provide moments of uninterrupted down time.
You may also consider creating a designated personal space within your home where you can be both physically close to your loved one and have a place to retreat when needed. This dedicated area can be a cozy chair in another room or a specific spot at the dining room table where your loved one understands that you are not immediately available.
By having this defined space, you can enjoy moments of privacy and tranquility while still maintaining a close proximity to your loved one’s presence.
Need more help with caregiver conflicts? Download our FREE eBook:
A Caregiver’s Guide to Conquering Caregiver Challenges with Confidence
