So many times, we do things without calculating the unexpected costs.
Take, for example, being a caregiver for an aging parent or another family member. You probably never thought twice about stepping in and doing the right thing.
Even if you live across the country or halfway around the world, you might have given up a few weeks of your life to step in and be there for this aging loved one. That is a wonderful, noble thing, but what if you live in the same town?
You are far more likely to give up more of your life than you even realize. If you lived hundreds or even thousands of miles away and had to take a leave of absence from work or spend a few weeks or couple of months with the senior, you pretty much know what you are giving up to help them.
But, when you live in the same town or close enough that you could stop by every day, the things you give up are often slipping away little by little, one day or one week at a time without you even realizing it.
On top of the things you give up, you are likely dealing with stress as a caregiver. With prolonged stress comes an increased risk of serious health issues and other challenges. How much could caregiving be affecting your health? Let’s take a quick look.
Prolonged stress increases the risk of serious health ailments.
When you are stressed, it can lead to anxiety. Prolonged stress can dramatically increase the risk of a heart attack, stroke, aneurysm, hypertension, high blood pressure, and many other serious health issues.
Prolonged stress can be affecting your sleep. If you are not sleeping enough or soundly enough each night, you could be unfocused, ultimately leading to an increased risk of mistakes, missed opportunities, and accidents.
That’s just the physical things that are affecting your health.
Prolonged stress can shorten your temper.
You might normally be a very reasonable, rational person who doesn’t lose his or her temper very often. But lately you could be finding yourself snapping at every little thing. That’s what stress can do to your psyche.
It can negatively impact your relationships, friendships, marriage, and even this relationship with the senior who depends on you.
If that is happening, and it usually will eventually, turn to home care. A home care aide can provide the relief you need to help you cope with stress, exercise, eat better, and spend more time on the things that matter to you most.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Home Care Services in Toluca Lake, CA, please contact the caring staff at Home Care Help. Serving All of Los Angeles County. Call Us Today (888) 989-7388
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