HOME INSTEAD – FOR STRESS-FREE CARE

HOME Instead Senior Care understands that the holidays can create a lot of extra to-dos and stress for many people caring for ageing loved ones. As we approach the St. Patrick’s Day break, instead of letting stress ruin a time meant to be enjoyed with family and friends, try these stress-busting tips from professionals at Home Instead Senior Care. Be flexible.

The holidays are steeped in personal, family and religious traditions. Maintaining those is a lot of responsibility for family caregivers, who are often the adult children of ageing parents. As a family, ask yourself, ‘What is important to continue and what can we adapt or let go?’ ” Take care of yourself. You hear it every year – don’t overeat during the break and keep exercising. That’s easier said than done.

Make a concerted effort to schedule time for exercise and keep healthy snacks handy to help avoid sugary holiday treats. Communicate your needs. Difficult family dynamics can take centre stage during any holiday period.

Conflict may arise if family members can no longer continue their traditional roles. Communicating is the best way to help smooth out problems and avert new ones. Look for comic relief. Nothing lifts the spirit like a good laugh!

Gather friends together for a chat and a cuppa or to watch the fun parades on TV. Plan ahead. Start making a list of who can do what so that no one bears the brunt of the work.

Make time for your traditions. Don’t let favourite traditions go by the wayside. If time or circumstances make them difficult to maintain, adapt them as necessary. Be resourceful.

Don’t be a martyr. If someone wants to help, say “yes” to that help with the roast or offer to run an errand. Saying “yes” to help can also mean taking advantage of professional home cares services. To find out more about Home Instead Senior Care services, call 071 931 7051 or visit HomeInstead.ie/Sligo.

Stress Busters for Caregivers this St. Patrick’s Day AT RHS Home Care we provide a quality driven community based home care service to hundreds of families across the west, northwest and midlands.

We have been caring for clients in the community for over 20 years and employ over 500 staff.

We are a preferred provider of home care by the HSE and have achieved the first BQAI Quality Mark in Ireland specific for home care standards in the community. High Quality Service to our clients is the mission of our company.

Social Care

Care of the Older Person Personal Care v Prompting of medication Convalescence Care v Dementia Care

Light housekeeping v End of life care

Social Support v Information provision Running of errands v Companionship Assistance with walking and exercise Assistance with getting up and going to bed Assistance with personal hygiene Assistance with laundry and ironing

Meal preparation