Caregiver resentment is common in adult children who care for a parent with Alzheimer's but not commonly talked about. Here are some practical strategies to help you avoid caregiver resentment.
Caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s can not only be emotionally challenging but it can also leave you feeling resentful toward your loved one. Most people don't want to admit out loud that they resent their parent for getting Alzheimer's or the caregiver resentment that comes from having to deal with the day-to-day challenges of caregiving. But, guess what? It's okay to admit you are resentful. And what's more, there are some strategies that will help you learn how to avoid caregiver resentment.
Here are some practical ideas to help you avoid caregiver resentment while providing opportunities for improving your role as a caregiver and your loved one's quality of life.
Create a Positive Environment
The environment you create can increase caregiver resentment or decrease it. By creating a positive environment, you can help keep caregiver resentment at bay. Here's how:
Turn on some music. Music can not only provide a calming effect for a person with Alzheimer's but, it can also calm you down and improve your mood. Another benefit of music is that it stimulates the brain – great for those who have Alzheimer's.
Use the power of touch. Just holding hands or a touch on the shoulder or arm helps you connect with your loved one and can have a very calming effect and help you avoid caregiver resentment. Never underestimate how touch can keep you from negative emotions and feelings, including resentment.
Talk it out. Having a meaningful conversation can be an effective way to avoid caregiver resentment. Use some familiar objects to start a conversation. Objects like photos and mementos can trigger positive memories for you and your parent.
Get Educated
Take time to learn about Alzheimer's Disease so you can understand how and why the brain begins to deteriorate. Educate yourself on the resources available so you will know where to go when you feel resentment building up. The internet is a wonderful resource along with your local library. This is a great way to avoid caregiver resentment.
Take Time for You
If you are exhausted, stress and running on empty, caregiver resentment can creep up. An important factor in avoiding caregiver resentment is taking time to take care of yourself and your health.
Get active. Exercise can be a vital component in avoiding caregiver resentment. Walk, run, bike or do whatever you enjoy doing that is active and keeps you moving. Try walking with a friend or take up a new activity like dancing.
Eat well. Can eating the right foods help you avoid caregiver resentment? Yes it can! Eating whole foods like fresh fruit and vegetables, lean cuts of meat and fish can actually boost your mood, give you energy and help you manage life without the ups and downs of a poor diet. Foods you will want to reduce or cut out completely are those high in fats, carbohydrates and all processed foods.
Get Connected
One of the most effective tools to use in avoiding caregiver resentment is to get connected. Find a support group or an on-line forum you can join. By connecting with others who share the same caregiver challenges, you realize you are not alone. And, someone may also provide you with a tip that will help you cope with resentment or other issues.
Caregiver resentment doesn't have to take over your life. By enlisting these simple coping skills, you can void caregiver resentment all together.
Written by Navacare team
Navacare helps adult children learn how to protect and prolong their elderly parents' independence by offering FREE resources and information at www.navacarenow.com.
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