April 25th, 2014 8:39 AM
Interesting that this section is currently blank, but what worked for me first was just a 15 min. walk around the block while my hubby watched MASH on TV. Not nearly enough but it was a start for my time. I would plan this time twice a day sometimes, then when Home care came in I would take the alarm clock go to my son's house and sleep or take a longer walk. I was also able in the two hours Home Care break to go to the local swimming pool for an hour. When Home Care extended their hours I was able to attend the Alzheimer's meeting in Red Deer. When I was too sick to go out I slipped downstairs to get some much needed sleep, while Home Care took over upstairs. I was able to register my hubby in an adult day program once a week which he complained about but enjoyed while he was there. I told him he was helping others with a 'new' program. It was truly never enough time for my rest and I still ended up in a crisis situation where I was not able to care for him at home anymore, so he needed immediate placement. Message is.. SO important to care for yourself anyway you can. USE people, your children, friends, neighbours or relations, anyone you can grab/encourage to come in or to take your loved one out for even an hour coffeebreak/drive. It will be good for both of you