Dear Caregivers,

August is National Wellness Month. It’s a good time to reflect on your own health and explore new ways of living a healthier life. This is vital for those caring for a loved one diagnosed with dementia. We encourage you to ensure you are “operating on all cylinders” to better cope with the daily challenges you and your loved one encounter.

Please take a moment to read the following in the context of your health and consider any changes you believe might be appropriate for you.

• Emotional: How you cope with your own feelings can have a direct impact on your emotional frame of mind. If you find yourself feeling stressed with persistent negative thoughts, you may want to consider peer counseling and stress management classes to help you. Caregivers are encouraged to seek support groups in your area. Contact Lisa Caudle at the Calvert County Office on Aging at 410-535-4606, ext. 8755 for a list of support groups.

• Intellectual, Cognitive: Engaging in stimulating activities helps keep our brains sharp and our outlook intellectually active. These games can be helpful to those with mild cognitive impairment; this can help retain brain pathways to keep memory intact for as long as possible.

• Physical: We know how important regular physical activity is to our overall wellbeing. Try walking or a light, daily workout. Encourage the person you care for to join you, even if they join you in their chair. Substitute healthy foods for processed foods and high sugar desserts. Consider limiting or eliminating your alcohol intake and, if you smoke, consider making a commitment to stop! Follow some “tried and true” guidelines and you’ll look better and feel better!

• Social: Few things do more damage to our wellbeing than becoming socially isolated. Maintaining ties with family and friends is critical, especially as we age. Make sure you regularly participate in activities that bring you in contact with others. If you have a loved one with dementia, try arranging visits from young family members and friends. Inter-generational activities are particularly beneficial to wellness.