Strategies to Reduce Caregiver Stress

GETTING STARTED 

• Caregiving is stressful. It is important to identify a few strategies that help to reduce stress before the caregiver feels overwhelmed.  

• Select strategies that are the easiest to do, then put structure around them – when, where, and for how long.   

• Connect strategies to an existing lifestyle pattern to increase the likelihood of consistency and effectiveness.  For example, listen to music while enjoying morning coffee. 

 

MINDSET STRATEGIES 

• There are two lives here – patient and caregiver – and both require attention. 

• Caregivers must take breaks from caregiving duties. Recognizing this need and giving yourself permission to take a break may require a change in mindset.   

• Set aside time alone, in a restful, quiet, comfortable space. Engage in peaceful activities such as meditation, mindfulness, reading, and deep breathing. 

• Exercise reduces stress hormones and increases chemicals that elevate mood. Walking, biking, yoga, and swimming are a few examples.   

• Research shows that even brief exposure (3-15 minutes) to negative messages in the media increases stress hormones and causes anxiety.  Limit media use. 

 

ENGAGEMENT STRATEGIES 

• Notice when things are working well and aim to replicate those conditions.  Likely, this is when the caregiver and their loved one are doing something enjoyable together. 

• Activities that engage the senses reduce anxiety and promote calmness, for example looking at photo albums, listening to music, baking (and eating!) cookies, holding hands. 

• See “Engagement Activities” in the Take Charge! Library for more ideas.  

 

CAREGIVER RESOURCES 

• Sharing experiences with trusted individuals benefits the mind, body and spirit. It helps relieve tension, gain perspective, and protect your health from damaging stress hormones. 

• The MMC team is available for caregiver support and education, including an annual care plan meeting where current concerns and future planning are discussed in detail. Contact the office or discuss this with the provider at the patient’s next appointment. 

• Counselors, therapists, and support groups are excellent resources to manage caregiver stress.  Referrals can be made by the MMC team.  Support groups are listed on the MMC website under the heading “Emotional Support”. 

• As care needs change, adult daycare, companionship, home care, and respite are options to discuss with the MMC team. 

• Managing your own health is essential to the caregiver journey.  Schedule and attend appointments with your primary care physician, dentist, and other specialists.