Supplemental information for Between a Rock and a Hard Place:
When is long-term care the right decision? published in the
November/December 2009 issue of Stroke Connection. Maintaining
Physical and Psychological Health It’s crucial for a survivor’s
health that the caregiver take care of his or her own physical
and mental health. Here are 10 tips from social worker and
caregiver Robin Straight. - Learn as much as possible about the
survivor’s condition; knowledge is empowering. - Set good
boundaries; learn to say no. - Don’t dwell on what you can’t
change. - Limit caffeine. - Get adequate rest. - Maintain a
healthy diet. - Find a support system and nurture it. - Share
your feelings with someone who wants to listen. - Focus on
things you are grateful for each day. - Care for yourself
spiritually. “The key is to keep your daily routine manageable,”
Robin said. Make time for regular exercise—find a partner if
possible. “It’s my experience that during times of illness,
people turn to what is familiar or gives comf