Caring for an elderly relative is oftentimes a thankless job. Whether your relative is suffering from Alzheimer’s or the damaging effects of stroke or another debilitating disease, caring for an aging family member can be a trying experience – one that can test both your patience and your commitment to person you’re caring for. Such struggles were documented in the appropriately titled “The 36-Hour Day,” a book by Dr. Peter Rabins and Nancy Mase that is considered to be the preeminent source of how to deal with Alzheimer’s patients.
For many caregivers, a typical day can seem like an exhausting and lonely eternity, one where the person you’re caring for can neither empathize with your sacrifice or even understand the oftentimes dire nature of their own condition. Taking time out to care for yourself is entirely necessary, both for your own good and the good of the person you’re caring for. A good way to keep your peace of mind and ensure the stress doesn’t overwhelm is you to follow these tips, courtesy of the National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA):

· Take breaks. Caring for an ill or debilitated loved one is a full-time and often demanding job. Take frequent breaks, both to relax physically and mentally.

· Beware of your possible changing emotional state. Depression can frequently plague caregivers, who many times are left alone with the difficult person they’re caring for, making it increasingly likely they’ll begin to look at their situation as hopeless. If you feel as though you’re growing depressed, seek help immediately.

· Accept help. Any time a friend or loved one offers help, take it. If people are willing to help, accept and try and offer suggestions for specific areas where they can help.

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