Tips for Reducing Caregiver Holiday Stress During The Holidays

The holidays are an exciting time of the year. It’s an opportunity to enjoy time with loved ones and celebrate traditions. But for caregivers, the holidays may bring added stress. You're juggling all the usual demands of caregiving plus extra responsibilities, and most of you may not be able to get much time off during this busy season. There are many ways to take pressure off yourself, though—and these tips can help:

Delegate responsibilities

Don’t feel like you have to do everything yourself. Consider hiring help for tasks such as cleaning or cooking when possible; this will allow you more time with loved ones without putting undue stress on yourself or them. Make sure someone else is available to help out while you’re away from home so you can run errands and grocery or gift shopping without worrying about home.

Take breaks

Taking a break is essential for your health and well-being. Even if you have help, you need time to regroup. You can take breaks anytime, especially during the holidays when family and friends are around to assist with your loved one’s care. Set aside an hour or two every day to focus on yourself. You deserve this! Don't let guilt stop you from taking time for yourself — go for coffee with friends, take a walk, or read that book sitting by your bedside table forever.

Don’t overcommit yourself.

During the holiday season, it’s easy to get swept up in the hustle and bustle of gift shopping, parties, and family gatherings. But if you find yourself overbooking yourself or feeling like you have to do everything alone, it can strain your health—and your relationships with others.

So how can caregivers avoid that trap? Here are some tips:

-Take time off from social events if necessary—and make sure that everyone else knows when they need to plan accordingly.

-Learn to say NO: The most important thing is to remember that your needs matter too. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t do it—even if you feel like you are being selfish or letting someone else down. It’s okay to say no sometimes!

-Don’t feel like you have to do everything on your own. Instead of pushing yourself too hard, consider letting go of some responsibilities so others can share the load.

Modify traditions if needed.

It’s important to preserve the important things to you and your loved ones, but it’s also okay to change some traditions. If a holiday tradition doesn’t make sense anymore, or if it causes your loved one stress or pain, it’s okay to change things up a bit. As long as whatever changes made don't result in the tradition losing its spirit (or fun), then go ahead with them!

Connect with other caregivers.

The holiday preparations can be overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. There are many ways you can stay connected with other caregivers who will understand what’s it like to be in your shoes. You can join caregiver support groups or events to talk about your experiences, gain a fresh perspective, or maybe just find someone who listens.

Don’t forget self-care.

As a caregiver, it’s important to remember that you also need to take care of yourself. You can’t be at 100% all of the time. Make sure that you’re eating, sleeping, and exercising regularly. And don’t forget about calling friends and family – responsibilities are important but so are relationships with other people!

Remember the Reason for the Season.

Don’t let stress and anxiety get in the way of enjoying this season. Remember, these days are about spending time with loved ones – not just doing things for them! Focus on what truly matters to you and your family. Mom’s recipe, laughter over meals, holiday movie marathon, and Christmas carols may be enough.

There is no “perfect” holiday experience. It’s about meaning, joy, and family. Savor the moments and make memories.  We wish you all a happy holiday season full of love and happiness!