New Year’s Resolution: Exercise for Caregivers
One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to exercise more. Most people have the desire to stay healthy and in shape via exercise, but time and resources often interfere. Family caregivers are especially limited in when and where they can fit in some exercise. Because of their time-consuming and often overwhelming responsibilities in caring for an older relative, self-care activities like exercise often get ignored.
Home Care in Evanston IL: Exercise for Caregivers
However, regular exercise is critical for the health and wellness of family caregiver, and there are many factors that can assist them in fulfilling this worthy goal.
How Exercise Benefits Family Caregivers.
Most family caregivers are considered middle age, which is when the body needs exercise more than ever. With middle age, chronic illnesses can develop, and a more sedentary lifestyle has long-term consequences for health. Some of the biggest health benefits associated with regular exercise include a stronger immune system, lower blood pressure, and lowered risk for things like obesity, diabetes, heart disease and cancer.
Exercise will certainly benefit family caregivers of all backgrounds, especially those who need stamina and energy. Helping an elderly relative with bathing, dressing, grooming, housework and more takes strength, which can be developed through regular exercise. It’s important for family caregivers to find the time to exercise, for their own sake and that of their elderly loved ones.
Finding Time for Family Caregivers to Exercise.
There are several ways that busy family caregivers can find the time to fit in some exercise, even if most of their time is devoted to their loved one’s care. One method is to do exercises while taking care of their loved one. Home gym versions of treadmill machines, ellipticals or rowing machines can be set up in the home, where family caregivers can take some time when their aging relative is nearby. Other exercises that can be done at home include aerobics, tai chi, yoga, or other exercise DVDs.
Another way that family caregivers can engage in regular exercise as well as take well-deserved breaks from their routine is to hire a home care provider to come in and attend to their elderly relative a few days a week. Family caregivers are then able to leave the house knowing their aging loved one is in good hands with a professional and experienced home care provider. Whether they go for a run, head to the gym or attend an aerobic or dance class, family caregivers have plenty of time to focus on themselves and get some exercise.
With so many obstacles standing in the way of health and fitness, family caregivers really do need to work hard in the new year to overcome them and make exercise a high priority. Taking time to exercise at home and hiring a home care provider can make it possible for them to achieve their goal and feel better while getting fitter.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Evanston, IL, contact the caring staff at Companion Services of America today at (847) 943-3786. Our home care service area includes Northbrook, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Des Plaines, Skokie, Lake Forest, Wilmette and the surrounding areas.
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