TO YOUR HEALTH

as their loved ones.

“Over the course of the next hour and a half, your mind is probably going to wander and ask what you have to do tomorrow and what groceries you need on the way home,” Kolada told the group. “But right now we’re in the moment and we want to be mindful that we’re here together to share, listen and connect.”

A resource guide from AuthoraCare Hospice in Greensboro explains the “distressing, anxiety-provoking situations” faced by caregivers.

“Perhaps you’re watching someone you love decline and wondering how you can help,” the AuthoraCare guide said. “Maybe you’re juggling a hectic schedule, coping with financial uncertainty or family conflict. Perhaps you worry about coping after your loved one passes away.”

AuthoraCare offers these tips for caregivers to ease stress.

• Exercise, even if it’s just a brief, short walk.

• Ask for help on chores ranging from mowing the lawn to picking up groceries.

• Grab time for yourself. Take a nap when your loved one is sleeping, talk to a friend or play with a pet.

• Get regular sleep as much as possible.

• Realize you can’t be the perfect caregiver and that pressuring yourself to get everything right heightens stress.

• If your loved one is living in a facility, share concerns with staff regularly. If you’re participating in your loved one’s care, arrange a schedule with staff that gives you time to rest and recharge.