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Information about the author of this post.
tlwe223's picture Terri Weber, MSW, CSW
Elder Care Specialist
College or Department
Work-Life and Well-Being
Phone Number
(859) 218-0457
Email Address
terri.weber@uky.edu

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Caregiver well-being: 6 tenets of self-care

Follow these best practices for well-being during times of uncertainty.

Social well-being

  • Maintain connection by staying in touch with family and friends
  • Seek and accept help from others
  • Join an in-person or virtual support group

Physical well-being

  • Eat a balanced diet
  • Exercise regularly
  • Get a good night’s sleep
  • Tend to your own health care needs

Emotional well-being

  • Recognize stress, then take steps to manage it
  • Keep a journal
  • Set aside some “me time”
  • Know your limitations and boundaries
  • Be mindful, present and judgment-free
  • Practice gratitude

Preparedness well-being

  • Learn about your loved one’s condition
  • Know your loved one’s medical information (pharmacy, medications, health history, etc.)
  • Know your loved one’s Social Security number and birthdate

Financial well-weing

  • Research programs to help cover caregiving costs and expenses
  • Set a budget
  • Consider temporary loan, credit card and mortgage deferments
  • Review your options if you need to leave your job to become a caregiver
  • Review your retirement savings
  • Create necessary legal documents (power of attorney, living will, will, do not resuscitate order.)

Career well-being

  • Communicate with your supervisor and co-workers
  • Review options for flex time
  • Organize home and work calendars
  • Manage your phone calls and emails to ensure work and your loved one are tended to
  • Use vacation time as vacation time
  • Learn about leave policies, including Family Medical Leave and paid elder care leave

Elder care and counseling can help! Utilize your available resources.