Your Greatest Holiday Gift
Dear Caregivers,
This year, Thanksgiving came late in the month. No sooner did the turkey get polished off and the dishes put away than we began preparing for the next holiday right around the corner. That's OK with me: I love the season's gathering of family, friends, and festivities. Still, the time crunch adds to the stress of preparing for the coming events, and even more so for caregivers of loved ones living with Alzheimer's disease.
No doubt you, like me, are now scrambling for gift ideas for friends and family. Before you get back to your list, I want to pass along a gift suggestion specifically for you. It may be the most valuable gift you'll ever receive:
Take special care of yourself this holiday season.
As joyous as these times are, they can be particularly difficult for caregivers. I've been known to remind caregivers to "take your oxygen first," and now I want you to "gift yourself first." Plan time to focus on yourself so you stay healthy, calm, and confident in your ability to control any situation. After all, your caregiving is one of the greatest gifts you bestow on your loved one, and you won't be able to do that if you don't take care of the caregiver.
Please talk to your NAN Navigator about their advice and input for planning for the holidays.
Meanwhile, check out this advice on taking care of yourself during the holidays:
Enjoying the Holiday Season as a Caregiver:
During the holiday season it is crucial for caregivers to make time to take care of themselves. Here is some guidance for your self-care during the holidays, and a link to a worksheet that can help you organize your thoughts and plan.
A Workbook for Planning Your Self-Care During the Holiday Season:
During the busy and sometimes stressful holiday season, it is crucial for caregivers to make time to take care of themselves. Here is a workbook to help you think through and plan your self-care during the holidays.
Some Self-Care Actions YOU CAN DO Right Now!:
An essential part of being a caregiver is caring for yourself. You have to make time to tend to yourself, no matter how much or little time you may have. Here are some ideas.
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“Self-compassion is simply giving the same kindness to ourselves that we would give to others.”
— Christopher Germer
