Sharing Caregiver Responsibilities During the Holidays

This is a sponsored post for AARP. All opinions are my own.

As a caregiver, the stress of the holidays is doubled if not tripled. We take care of our own families, but continue with our caregiver role. And it can take away from this joyful season, which is if you don’t share responsibilities and rally in the troops.

You want your loved one to take part in holiday traditions, purchase gifts, etc. But you want the same for yourself and your family even amid the many chores of preparing for this season. So how do you accomplish both?

• Make Plans – Oh how we dislike getting organized (at least I do). It will, however show you in black and white exactly what needs to be done. Don’t forget to include the needs of your loved one. Put everything on a calendar including those who can help.
• Make Holiday Chores Fun – Ask for support, especially from those who have a good attitude. Then, as you decorate, put on some of your favorite music. Include your loved one in things they can do – baking, choosing gifts from a catalog, while you talk about holiday memories.
• Make It Easy – If you feel overwhelmed, it is perfectly OK to dine out or cater your holiday meal. If friends bake some amazing cookies, ask them for some extras. Instead of decorating yourself, buy a pre-lit and decorated Christmas tree.
• Make It A Group Effort – Check on churches, local organizations, high school volunteers that can assist you in any way. Some wrap presents, decorate outdoors, provide respite care, etc.

For other support for caregivers, check out AARP Caregiver Resources. There’s an article about holiday caregiver stress. Sharing caregiver responsibilities, especially during the holidays can make everyone’s spirits bright!

What other suggestions do you have for caregivers?

I am part of AARP’s Kitchen Cabinet on Caregiving.  This is a series of posts on the topic of caregiving. This post and my social media involvement is compensated, but all opinions are my own.

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