How Respite Care Can Help Family Caregivers Balance Caring for a Loved One and Other Responsibilities in Gilford, NH

Adjusting to life after the COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenge for everyone. With offices, schools, and businesses closing working from home is becoming the “new normal” for many Americans. Many senior centers, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities have also closed leaving many seniors and families in Gilford without the proper respite care they need.

How Respite Care Helps Families in Gilford Find the Perfect Work-Life Balance During COVID-19

Here are some helpful tips from Visiting Angels of Gilford’s respite care experts that can help family members manage their new role as caregiver while working productively from home:

Create a Workspace

Establish a set workspace as your home “office.” Having a private room would be ideal but if that is not an option then placing a desk in a quiet corner will also do the trick. If you are expecting a video call, headphones can help drown out the other noise in the room and adjusting the lighting and background on your monitor can help enhance your appearance as well.

Establish a Routine

It is important to establish a daily routine and to get in the habit of following it for yourself and your loved one. Establishing a predictable schedule for meals, medicine, exercise, and other activities will help them transition to the new living arrangements and feel more comfortable. The routine will also help you stay productive at work because it can often be difficult to focus at home with so many distractions.

Minimize the Potential for Interruptions

While interruptions are sure to happen, there are a few things we can do to minimize the potential for interruptions such as making sure your loved one is safe, comfortable, and has everything they need before starting work. Occasionally check in with them throughout the day when you have a spare moment to see if they need help to limit the chance that they need your help while you are in the middle of an important task. If your loved one lives in a different household then give them a call before you start your day and when you have a break.

Ask for What You Need

One of the benefits of working from home is the increased flexibility so if the needs of your loved one are often conflicting with your work schedule ask if it is possible to adjust your schedule to work around being a caregiver so that you can still stay productive and fulfill your job responsibilities each day.

Take Time for Yourself

The responsibilities of being a caregiver along with working from home can often be overwhelming; you must take time for yourself to relax and unwind. Whether it be a walk around the block, reading a book or watching television it is important that you destress at some point throughout the day to prevent burnout. Respite care services can be of great help in these situations, allowing you to take a break when you need it most.

Get Help

If you ever feel too overwhelmed do not be afraid to ask for help. Consider asking family members for assistance or hiring a local home care provider such as Visiting Angels of Gilford. We offer respite care services to make sure your loved one gets the help they need to continue living safely at home while giving you peace of mind that they are in good hands.

Schedule your FREE In-Home Assessment Today

If you are in need of respite care so you can focus on your own needs and well-being, contact Visiting Angels of Gilford today. Our staff will be happy to schedule a free, home care assessment and help you manage your work-life balance.