Caregivers are at a great risk of overwhelming stress and burnout due to the enormous responsibility put on them. But as the saying goes, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” So what are some realistic ways to “refill your cup?”
The first step is to create space and time to care for yourself. Think of hobbies you enjoy and make time for them. Staying active and getting quality sleep will also help you keep up the stamina you will need to continue providing good care to your loved ones. Your community can also offer tremendous support. Many support groups, both in person and online, can connect you with others going through the same struggles. They may provide resources like respite care, tips for caregiving and even counseling services.
Lastly, be kind to yourself and give yourself grace. Caring for an aging parent can bring up a rainbow of emotions and letting yourself feel them without judgment can help you process them. The work you do is important and even if you feel alone, you are part of the roughly 154,000 caregivers in Hawai‘i. You are not alone in this. Don’t forget to fill your cup!
MANOA COTTAGE KAIMUKI
748 Olokele Ave., Honolulu, HI 96816
808-800-4089 | info@manoacottage.com
manoacottage.com
University of Hawai‘i Center on Aging-Resources:
manoa.hawaii.edu/aging/organizations
Caregiver Connection of Hawai‘i:
caregiverconnectionofhawaii.org/support-groups
Leave a Reply