5 Steps to Better Physical Health for Caregivers - Dr. jamie huysman - Uhc tv

This viewer asks, "As a caregiver, how do I care for my physical health?" That's a great question, but always remember as a caregiver, you know, health and wellness is like a three-legged stool. There's physical health. There's psychological health. And there's social health. And you need to pay attention to all three. But since this question is about your physical health, let's start there. The first thing I would do is go to your primary care physician, get assessed, get evaluated, check out your numbers, make sure you know exactly where you are in your own health and wellness. And also, ask your physician if they have a social worker, or a coach, or resources there that can help you stay well. We are moving towards patient centered medical homes and you'd be surprised what they may have. Make sure also to exercise. Exercise I know seems difficult for a caregiver because of time constraints, but just get off the couch. Set up a time when you walk or meditate and just get away and set up at least a 30 minute time period, every three days of the week. Also, eat nutritionally. Remember when you eat nutritionally, you're putting healthy things in your body that keep you empowered and energized. As well, make sure you're medication compliance is in check. Do not forget to take medication. It's so important for your health and wellness. And of course, finally, I always say there's certain caregiver sleep, hygiene we have to attend to. Sleep seems to be the most precious commodity for a caregiver. And when we don't have it, we're frustrated. We're angry. We're feeling very, very tired. So, make sure you get six to eight hours of sleep. Make sure that sleep comes in regular intervals. So you go to bed at the same time and try to wake up at the same time. And, also, make sure that you have all your computers and TV screens off. As well, remember what my mother always said, which is the most important thing I ever learned. That you can only take somebody as far as you take yourself, so make sure, you take your physical health to a place of health and wellness. Thank you for that question.