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

 Hi Karen,

This section was blank as I have been reading through the discussions and felt this was a needed section of its very own! I only added it to the discussions 24 hours ago so thank you for being the first to post in it.  All good advice, especially the use people portion.  People want to help so take them up on their offers.  Thanks for getting this conversation started.  

It's far too common that caregivers focus much of their time, attention and resources on a loved one and, in the process, completely overlook their own physical, emotional and mental needs. I completely agree with Karen's suggestions (see above) ... even a brisk 15-minute walk around the block can help burn off some steam and clear the head.

You don't have to break a sweat with personal respite. I found that writing was very therapeutic. Now that it's starting to warm up (hopefully!), pull out a lawn chair, sit outside and read a good book. Meet a friend for coffee. Go shopping or to see a movie. Register in a class. Turn off your cell phone for an hour. Get a massage. Listen to relaxation CD's before bed. Do something JUST  FOR YOU and don't feel guilty / selfish for taking that time!

HI Again, Just looking at  questions on a survey that asked about memories, I realized all my memories are since my spouse was diagosed. It was very hard to think back and pick out 'Happy Times' before 2011. I am focoused on what has happened in the last 3 years and it is all negative. We do have good memories tucked away, so get out those pictures and go through them. For sure there are some that will make you smile and bring back a memory, even if it is for a few minutes here and there, speak about the pictures with your children and friends.  Give them a call and remember the pictures to them. Give them a smile as well. It will feel good. I do have a memory book for my husband, but this is for you and your memories.

Karen,

That is a really great suggestion, some of the more “crafty” people have gone and created memory books, filled with pictures, short blurbs and memories of their time before the diagnosis.  It's a way to look back and as you say remember.