How to Reduce Caregiver Stress This Holiday Season

The holidays are often difficult for caregivers. When your time is already stretched thin caring for a family member, extra demands can result in feelings of stress, and even anxiety and depression.

We at Care Indeed know how much family caregivers give of themselves every day, 365 days a year. Here are five suggestions to help reduce stress so you can enjoy this special time:

Remember the Reason for the Season

Small gestures are often as meaningful as big get-togethers, parties, and events. Joy radiates from within. It's more important to have fun throughout the holidays than to be perfect.

Know that You Don’t Have to Do Everything

The holiday season often feels like an additional burden when you’re stressed. If you feel the house has to be perfect, that you must entertain large numbers of guests, and you have to host the holiday meal on top of your caregiver duties, you will become too exhausted to enjoy the season.

Instead, delegate and be very selective about time commitments. Be creative and have buffets or potlucks. Accept only events and activities that are necessary and add to the joy of your celebrations.

Remember Those Special to You

It is easy to focus so intently on all the things you must accomplish over the holidays that you forget the beauty of being able to spend the holidays together with loved ones. Time is short and nobody really remembers superficial details anyway, so enjoy the moment.

Take Time for Yourself

Prioritize scheduling some activities for yourself! Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated.

Call friends, meet for hot chocolate, plan an afternoon at the spa, or share Zoom time. The camaraderie reduces stress levels and refills your energy supply.

Ask or Arrange for Help and Support

Extra support from a Care Indeed Caregiver or Personal Concierge frees your time so you can relax and enjoy the holidays with your loved ones.

Caregivers and your loved ones hold special places in our hearts at Care Indeed. From all of us here, we wish you a stress-free, serene, enjoyable holiday season.