Use non-scented toiletries. Keep a trash can outside the back door for items that trap heavy smells in the home. ⢠Sig
385.468.3280 | slco.org/caregiver | TTY users call 7-1-1
The Caregiver News
May 2018
Embracing Silence A caregiver’s world is filled with noise—never ending dishwashers, dryers, vacuums, questions and the constant rattle of thoughts and concerns that refuse to quiet down. The constant clatter makes it important to search out and embrace silence, giving our senses a break from the overstimulation, the “noise” of caregiving.
Minimize Sensory Overload. Learn to relax the senses. Start by identifying sensory triggers. Do loud sounds, large active groups, too much color or certain smells cause a reaction? Once a sensory concern has been identified, take steps to ease the overload. Examples on how to relax the senses include:
Give Your Brain a Vacation. Studies show that constant work and distractions can place a strain on the insula, a part of the brain that regulates attention. A brain that does too many tasks at once burns out and can no longer regulate attention well.
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Sound. Wear noise-cancelling headphones during break time. Turn off the TV and other technology for intervals of 15 minutes and sit in silence. Go shopping at odd hours to avoid the noise and rush of crowds.
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Smell. Walk into nature. Carry essential oils to clear the palate and replace distressing smells. Use non-scented toiletries. Keep a trash can outside the back door for items that trap heavy smells in the home.
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Sight. Use natural light as much as possible. Give eyes time away from electronic strain. Wear sunglasses. Minimalize decorations on walls—simplify the environment.
Good ways to relax the brain include taking a 10 minute cat nap, meditating 3 times a week, sitting quietly in nature, or taking a walk and letting the mind wander or daydream. Blog.bulletproof.com recommends that we “don’t fight the brain”. If the body says its tired and cannot concentrate “get up, take a break and reset the brain’s cycle”. New smart phone apps such as Awareness, Time Out Free or Break Time can help as well. Do a basic web search titled “how to give your brain a vacation” for more information.
Avoiding Sensory Overload
Avoid trigger situations and let others know overstimulation is occurring. Caregivers and care receivers benefit from sensory relaxation.
Creating a Personal Sanctuary
How to Meditate
Education Programs
The Tip Jar
Stress-Busting for Family Caregivers
Report Physical Symptoms Professionals often ask a caregiver what type of symptoms they are observing, not only in the person they care for, but also in themselves. It is important to track symptoms after medication changes, illness or falls. The Managing Care Guide (pages 22 to 24) contains useful tools to assist in tracking and reporting changes to professionals. Visit slco.org/caregiver (open the resource tab)
Stress Busting is a free nine week evidence-based program. Come learn eight stress therapy techniques. Visit the slco.org/caregiver calendar or call 385.468.3280 for details.
Caregiver Academy The Caregiver Academy is a free six week skill workshop where caregivers learn to manage a care environment, run family meetings, cope with behaviors, and find resources. The Visit the slco.org/caregiver calendar or call 385.468.3280 for details. Reasonable ADA Accommodations for workshops are requested by contacting Susan at 385.468.3191 or
[email protected].
Stress Busting Ideas •
The Madeline Festival 2018, 331 E South Temple, offers Two Shields: A Native American Dance Company with PowWow dancers, Hoop Dance, Native American flute and more. May 6 at 8:00 pm. Contact: 801.328.8941 or
[email protected].
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Mother’s Day Brunch at Gardener Village, 1100 W 7800 S. May 13 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. A breakfast and a lunch option are offered. Pre-purchase required. Contact: 801.566.8903.
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Pedal Palooza, 6212 W 14200 S, Herriman. UFA obstacle course, helmet check, UPD rodeo and more. No ticket required. May 19 from 9:00 am to 10:30 am. Contact: 801.446.5323.
Living Traditions Festival May 18 to May 20 450 S 200 E | Free Admission livingtraditionsfestival.com Food, Music and Traditions
Visit nowplayingutah.com, seniorsbluebook.com, slco.org senior center and caregiver calendars for more options.
Support Groups • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Murray Heritage Senior Center. Call 801.264.2635.
Riverton Senior Center. Call 385.468.3043.
• Alzheimer’s & Related Dementia Groups
Draper Library. Call 801-265-1944.
Sandy Senior Center. Call 385.468.3410.
Millcreek Senior Center. 801.265.1944.
• Caregiver Lunch Bunch—a peer group for family caregivers. 1st Thursday each month at 11:30 am. May’s event will be at Leatherby’s Creamery, 1872 W 5400 S, Taylorsville. Call 385.468.3281 to RSVP. • FTD & Related Dementia—Sandy Senior Center. Call 801.231.3442.
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Pinterest.com/slcoaging A great place for inspiration.
General Caregiver Groups
Magna Kennecott Senior Center. Call 385.468.3281.
Mt Olympus Senior Center. Call 801.424.2200.
• S.A.G.E./LGBTQ Seniors—Tenth East Senior Center.
Call 385-468-3140. Visit the slco.org/caregiver for more groups and events.
