Tips for Caregivers – Fitting Exercise Into Your Day
Caregivers in Sleepy Hollow NY
Most family caregivers know the importance of doing stress-relieving activities and living a healthy lifestyle. The problem, however, is that many family caregivers have days that are jam-packed with the tasks and responsibilities that come with work, raising a family, and taking care of a loved one. Of course exercising can make you feel happier, stay healthier, and beat stress, but how can a caregiver find the time? It’s true that most family caregivers don’t have hours and hours each week to dedicate to working out at a gym, taking fitness classes, or training for a long-distance run but, with a little creativity, most family caregivers can squeeze a little bit of physical activity into their day. And, most family caregivers will be happy to know that they will still be able to notice some health benefits (physical, mental, and emotional) even when they exercise just a little bit each day. Here are some practical tips for fitting exercise into your busy day.
* Make the Most of Errands
Errands can be pain, but they can also be a great opportunity to fit in some much-needed physical activity. Try parking farther away when you need to make a stop at the grocery store, pharmacy, or post office and be proud of the extra steps you will be taking. Take the stairs instead of the elevator when you can. And, when you go to the mall or a big supermarket, take an extra lap around when you are done with your shopping. This may not seem like much, but, if you wear a pedometer, you may be surprised to see all of the extra miles you will be walking each week.
* Try At-Home Exercises
There are many strengthening exercises you can do without ever leaving home. When you have a short break in your day, try fitting in just a few exercises that are easy and quick to do. For example, when you and your elderly loved one are watching TV, see how many crunches you can do during the commercial break. Or, when your loved one is taking a nap, try doing some simple exercises that you can do while seated in a chair.
* Make Phone Time Exercise Time
Do you find yourself on the phone a lot during the day making appointments, checking up with the cable service, and talking to family members? If so, make good use of this time by walking around the house while you are on the phone. Next time you get put on hold, don’t think of it as an inconvenience, think of it as an opportunity to squeeze in a little walk around the house!
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring in-home caregivers in Sleepy Hollow NY, call the caring staff at The Perfect Home Care today: (855) 855-5728
- How Can You Tell When Your Elderly Loved One Really Can’t Live on Her Own Any Longer? - May 12, 2017
- Four Age-related Vision Problems in Seniors - April 14, 2017
- 5 Things to Know About Occupational Therapy - April 7, 2017
