Friday, September 7, 2018

Finishing - But Never Finished



Life’s journey is one l o n g => marathon we’re seldom prepared to run. As caregivers we offer assistance to weary runners approaching their own personal finish line. Sometimes we cheer them on and sometimes we bandage their feet. Sometimes we lovingly cool their brow and wet their lips; but all too often when they falter, we attempt to pick them up and carry them the rest of the way, all by ourselves!

Imagine the inevitable (and preventable) crash you both face, all because no one asked for help.

Burn-out is a very real occupational hazard, whether you’re a family caregiver or you give care as a professional. Do yourself a favor, read some expert advice on how to run a marathon using walk-breaks:   https://www.runnersworld.com/training/a20862651/why-you-should-take-walk-breaks/  You don’t have to be a long distance runner to benefit from the concept. 

Thoughtfully plan to take short, daily “walk breaks.” Long awaited vacations and get-a-ways are not nearly as effective when it comes to curing and/or preventing exhaustion. A lifestyle that incorporates walk, run, walk, run, intervals is a more realistic and effective way to prevent unnecessary burn-out.

Recognize the signs and symptoms of Caregiver burnout:


Staying strong takes thoughtful planning and preparation, especially for those of us running a challenging race of our own while assisting others who are facing the end of theirs as well.


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