Caring for Aging Loved Ones: A Guide for Caregivers

Around 41 million Americans provide unpaid eldercare to loved ones. If you aren't impacted by helping to care for an aging loved one in some way, there's a strong chance you will be in the future—and we want to make sure you have the knowledge and resources you need to be prepared. 

Prioritizing Self-Care

Caring for someone who has dementia, physical disabilities or other age-related conditions is challenging, and the physical, emotional and mental demands on those who provide eldercare can be significant.

Engaging in simple self-care activities – like regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep and respite breaks – can make a real difference in your overall well-being when caring for an aging loved one. Self-care practices help you to maintain your own health, so you can sustain the energy and resilience you need to care for your loved ones. 

Without adequate self-care, you’re putting yourself at risk for burnout, stress and health issues—all of which interfere with your ability to provide care to the ones you love. 

Tap Into Your Resources 

• Upcoming Webinar! Join Carilion Wellness on Microsoft Teams for the upcoming webinar: Bending and Not Breaking: Being a Caregiver on Wednesday, April 23, noon – 12:45 p.m. Dr. Brian Unwin will discuss strategies for managing caregiving demands. Be sure to register in advance if you have specific topics or questions that you would like addressed during the webinar.  
• The Benefits, Pay and Well-being hub has a new section, Caring for Aging Loved Ones, that includes valuable resources and benefits to support you and help you navigate the challenges of providing eldercare. 
• Carilion’s EAP can help you navigate how to best care for your aging parent or loved one. 
• New York Life has an Employee Assistance & Wellness Support program available to all employees that offers counseling services, legal and financial advice and family care resources, including eldercare. 

Remember These Tips

1. Prioritize self-care: Focus on physical and emotional well-being. 

2. Build a support network: Connect with other caregivers and online communities. 

3. Stay organized: Keep track of medical records and caregiving schedules. 

4. Utilize workplace benefits: Explore flexible work arrangements and caregiver support programs. 

5. Celebrate progress: Recognize small wins to stay positive and motivated. 

Caring for a loved one is challenging, but with the right resources and self-care practices, you can maintain your well-being while providing effective care.