We are hiring PCA’s and HHA’s in all the boroughs.Everybody experiences stress, but some days are more difficult than others. Mental health is vital for the elderly and caregivers alike, so we’d like to take a moment to remind you of the importance of stress relief. According to the American Psychological Association, “stress affects all systems of the body, including the musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, endocrine, gastrointestinal, nervous, and reproductive systems.” Long-term stress may lead to discomfort and health concerns for the elderly and caregivers.
Because Special Touch Home Care helps loved ones support their elderly loved ones, we know the downsides of excessive stress and burnout. More importantly, we know how important it is to implement the following three activities to retrieve stress and, in turn, enjoy a higher quality of life.
1. Spend Time Outside
Getting out in the sun and the fresh air relieves stress. Going out to the park or other green spaces allows you to take a moment, slow down, and reduce stress. Japanese researchers have found that being in nature can lower your stress-hormone cortisol and decrease your heart rate.
Taking a nature walk or going to the park can be an excellent way to disconnect and recharge your internal battery, enjoying nature while decreasing stress levels.
2. Socialize with Friends and Loved Ones
When you’re burned out from being a caregiver and/or mentally coping with and managing various health issues, it’s not uncommon to feel isolated. This was especially true at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many experienced firsthand how bad long-term isolation feels. Taking the time to socialize with friends or loved ones can help you take a much-deserved breather.
If you’re immunocompromised, virtual hangouts can provide many benefits. People are social beings, so taking the time to socialize and interact with others has measurable and immeasurable benefits.
3. Get Moving With Physical Exercise
Just like spending time outside, adding exercise to your regimen can also help relieve stress because it provides endorphins, which make you feel much better. According to the Mayo Clinic,
“Exercise can provide stress relief for your body while imitating effects of stress, such as the flight or fight response, and helping your body and its systems practice working together through those effects. This can also lead to positive effects in your body — including your cardiovascular, digestive, and immune systems — by helping protect your body from harmful effects of stress.”
Taking the time to move your body can help relieve stress while also being good for your overall health. If you are unable to partake in higher impact exercises or just want to include variety into your routine, doing yoga or Tai Chi are highly effective options that are low impact.
Interested in Special Touch Home Care?
These options may seem simple, but creating a plan and taking action on that plan is when the benefits of these actions can be realized. These are just some options to get you started – be sure to speak with your doctor before starting a new exercise regimen.
If you have someone in your life interested in in-home care, or if you’re interested in in-home care for yourself, we hope you will reach out to us. Special Touch Home Care helps loved ones get the care they need to live comfortably and independently in the comfort of their own home. Contact us or schedule a call with our Care Representative Team member today!
WE’RE HERE TO HELP
Request Your Free Consultation
Fill out this form for a completely FREE consultation with a care representative.
The Most “Liked” & Highest Reviewed In-Home Care Company in New York
Our team is here to make your life easier when you need help. That’s why our customers give us high ★★★★★ satisfaction ratings.
Resources And Blog Posts
