Caregiving for an aging loved one is an all-consuming responsibility that demands your time, energy and emotional investment from sunup until sundown, day in and day out, year after year.
That’s why when caregiving ends—whether due to a different care arrangement or death—it can bring a complex mix of emotions that are difficult to process. There may be a sense of relief and freedom, especially if the caregiving journey was long and taxing. However, this relief is often accompanied by feelings of emptiness, guilt, grief and loss.
The caregiver may struggle with an identity shift, having dedicated so much of their life to providing care. They may feel uncertain about what to do next and struggle with adjusting to a new routine. Some caregivers may even experience depression or anxiety during this period.
If you’re navigating the end of caregiving, here are nine steps to help you cope during this life transition.
- Give Yourself Time to Process, Accept and Transition
Going from the constant demands of caregiving to a life with less responsibility can be jarring. Don’t feel the need to dive headfirst into new a new normal. Instead, take time to:
- Process and acknowledge your former role as a caregiver and any trauma it may have caused.
- Accept your new reality, let go of what is ending and be present in the moment.
- Transition to your new life by being honest with yourself about what you want.
Consider keeping a journal during this time to document and process your emotions.
- Rest Your Body and Renew Focus on Your Health
Caregiving can take a physical and mental toll, and it’s normal to feel a lingering exhaustion after it ends. Help nourish your body during this transition by focusing on:
- Sleep: Get around seven to eight hours of sleep per night.
- Nutrition: Eat a variety of foods from all the food groups.
- Movement: Try to walk or exercise every day.
- Reflect on What You Gave Up and Want to Get Back
Chances are you made sacrifices while caregiving. What did you give up that you’d like to get back? What was your life like before caregiving, and how do you envision your life moving forward? What makes you happy? Write down your thoughts or create a vision board with your reflections, ideas and dreams.
- Dip Your Toes Back Into Your Interests, Passions and Hobbies
Now it’s time to rediscover yourself and pursue the interests you put aside—but don’t try to do too much too fast. Overwhelming your schedule with activities could exacerbate feelings of stress and anxiety.
- Get Professional Counseling
Seeking professional counseling after caregiving ends can be a vital step in processing any grief, guilt or confusion. Counseling will give you a safe space to explore your feelings and develop coping strategies for moving forward.
- Seek Support From Friends and Family
Surrounding yourself with loved ones who provide support and connection can help you navigate this life transition and process the range of emotions. Leaning on your circle can facilitate healing, ensure you don’t feel isolated, and give you a sense of normalcy.
- But Don’t Let Others’ Opinions Dictate Your Journey
While it’s important to have support, don’t let the advice and opinions of your well-meaning loved ones dictate your journey. Prioritize your own needs and feelings during this time and embrace your freedom to make decisions that support your healing.
- Check in With Your Finances
Whether you took time off work for caregiving or spent your own savings to provide care, it might be time to give your finances a tune-up. Revisit your budget and consider ways you can achieve important financial goals like reducing debt, building savings, and preparing for retirement.
- Think About Your Own Future Long-Term Care Needs
Did your experience caregiving lead you to think about your own future? Are you concerned about affording care or being a burden on your loved ones? It might be time to consider long-term care insurance, a product that’s designed to help you maintain control of where you receive care while safeguarding your savings.
Want more? Check out our blog, 5 Simple Ways to Care for a Caregiver
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