Episode Number
156
Episode Show Notes / Description
You can't pour from an empty cup, and that includes getting enough sleep. This week, explore ways caregivers can protect their rest while continuing to care for the people they love.
Transcript
Good morning, this is your Wellness Wake-Up Call with University of Illinois Extension.
There are millions of caregivers across the United States who care for family and friends. They provide vital support, helping loved ones stay in their homes by providing personal care, such as bathing, dressing, managing medications, preparing meals, and offering emotional support.
Unfortunately, many caregivers struggle to get adequate sleep. Interrupted or insufficient sleep can increase the risk of serious health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, and injuries. Chronic sleep deprivation can also leave caregivers feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and irritable, making it harder to provide quality care and manage daily challenges.
Although there is no substitute for a good night’s sleep, caregivers can take steps to improve their rest. If possible, create a shared nighttime schedule with family members or other caregivers so that no one person is responsible every night. Consider hiring a professional respite caregiver or home aide for evening or overnight coverage, even just a few nights a week.
During the day, encourage exposure to natural sunlight and physical activity to support a healthy sleep-wake cycle. At night, consider motion-sensor lights, bed alarms, or quiet door chimes to help monitor a loved one safely without requiring constant physical checks.
Caring for a loved one is rewarding and a profound act of dedication. However, you must remember to take care of yourself, starting with a good night’s sleep.
Thank you for listening! I hope you have a happy and healthy day ahead. Content for this episode was provided by Diane Reinhold, food and nutrition educator for University of Illinois Extension
There are millions of caregivers across the United States who care for family and friends. They provide vital support, helping loved ones stay in their homes by providing personal care, such as bathing, dressing, managing medications, preparing meals, and offering emotional support.
Unfortunately, many caregivers struggle to get adequate sleep. Interrupted or insufficient sleep can increase the risk of serious health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, and injuries. Chronic sleep deprivation can also leave caregivers feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and irritable, making it harder to provide quality care and manage daily challenges.
Although there is no substitute for a good night’s sleep, caregivers can take steps to improve their rest. If possible, create a shared nighttime schedule with family members or other caregivers so that no one person is responsible every night. Consider hiring a professional respite caregiver or home aide for evening or overnight coverage, even just a few nights a week.
During the day, encourage exposure to natural sunlight and physical activity to support a healthy sleep-wake cycle. At night, consider motion-sensor lights, bed alarms, or quiet door chimes to help monitor a loved one safely without requiring constant physical checks.
Caring for a loved one is rewarding and a profound act of dedication. However, you must remember to take care of yourself, starting with a good night’s sleep.
Thank you for listening! I hope you have a happy and healthy day ahead. Content for this episode was provided by Diane Reinhold, food and nutrition educator for University of Illinois Extension