5 tips from Fundació ACE for the self-care of caregivers in confinement

In the wake of the SARS-COV-2 coronavirus pandemic, many families are being kept at home to prevent the spread of the virus. People over 65 and with multiple illnesses, such as people with dementia, are a group at risk and therefore specific prevention and protection measures are essential to ensure their health and safety.

In this context, it is relevant to pay attention to the caregivers, who will be the ones to carry the burden of the cure 24 hours a day, unlike a normal situation in which the affected person can use care resources such as day centres. 

That is why the Social Work and Day Care team of Fundació ACE has prepared a brief guide with advice for the emotional well-being and self-healing of the caregiver during confinement. These are the main points:

1.    

Inform yourself once a day and from reliable sources. It is essential to limit the number of times that we receive information and, when we do, that it is from reliable sources.

2.    

Finding time and space for oneself. It is essential to respect and preserve as many hours of rest as possible, maintain a healthy diet, be physically and mentally active, set aside time for some rewarding leisure activity and ask for help if necessary, both from neighbors and professionals.

3.    

Accept the situation. Live with the person with Alzheimer's, since they should not be alone during confinement. It may help to practice breathing and relaxation techniques and it is highly recommended that a schedule be drawn up.

4.    

Confinement doesn't mean social isolation. Finding time to socialize and keep our friendships or family alive through calls or video calls, but not using instant messaging groups compulsively.

5.    

Managing emotions. Expressing emotions such as apathy and sadness is important, but so is taking emotional distance, practicing breathing and relaxation exercises or changing activities.

More information at this link.