New Year's Resolutions to Help Caregivers of Senior Parents This Year

With the arrival of 2023, many caregivers of senior parents may find themselves wondering how they can make their lives—and, in many cases, their parent or parents'—better in the coming year. These resolutions can help caregivers of senior parents create a better path to the year ahead. 

1. "I Will Take Advantage of the Time I Have."

As caregivers move forward into 2023, it can be important for them to take advantage of the time they do have. Mindfulness can help many caregivers put down the phone, step away from the television, and pay more attention to the moment. Often, increased awareness of available time can make it easier for caregivers to take care of everything on their extensive To Do lists—and to find more time to actively do the things they want to do.

2. "I Will Engage in Self-Care."

Many caregivers in Gettysburg and Red Lion let self-care fall by the wayside. All too often, they may forget about things like eating healthy or making sure that they get enough exercise. Fortunately, there are several ways senior caregivers can engage in self-care and still take care of senior loved ones. Going for walks together or attending exercise classes at the local gym can allow senior caregivers and their parents to get in exercise at the same time while preparing healthy meals can benefit everyone in the family. 

3. "I Will Ask for Help When I Need It."

Many senior caregivers struggle to ask for help, even when they feel overwhelmed and out of time. All too often, once a caregiver takes on those responsibilities, they feel reluctant to hand over the care of a senior parent to anyone else. Learning when and how to ask for help, however, can make a huge difference. Friends and family members may all be ready to step in, but not know quite how they can provide the needed support. By learning when to ask for help, caregivers may find that they're able to have more fulfilling lives and avoid burnout even while taking on considerable caretaker responsibilities. 

Getting needed help may also mean taking advantage of senior care services, which can provide respite assistance, help with daily care tasks, and more. 

4. "I Will Let Go of What I Cannot Control."

Senior caregivers may struggle to let go of control of anything relating to a senior parent's health and wellness. However, many things, including whether they will eat or their overall willingness to engage in physical activity, may remain outside the caregiver's control. Learning to let go of those things outside their control can help caregivers relax and enjoy the time with their senior parents more.

Senior Helpers York and Adams Counties

Caring for a senior loved one can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also prove difficult. With these resolutions, many caregivers can experience greater satisfaction in the coming year. Do you need help caring for a loved one in York, Hanover, Gettysburg, Red Lion, York County, and Adams County? Senior Helpers York and Adams Counties can help. Contact us to learn more about our caregiving options.