Feeling tired is something most caregivers can identify with. Not only are YOU exhausted, but your loved one may also battle fatigue depending on their condition, their medications, or other treatment. What to do when both the caregiver and the care recipient are exhausted?

Find ways to manage the fatigue!

Below are some tips to help you manage fatigue and conserve your energy.

Washing & Bathing

• Wash hair in shower, not over sink
• Sit and use a terry robe instead of drying off with a towel
• Use a shower organizer over the shower head to avoid leaning and reaching
• Use safety strips on the floor of the tub
• Install a grab rail
• Use a shower bench or lawn chair to sit while showering
• Use a handheld shower while sitting
• Use moderate temperature water rather than hot
• Use a long-handled sponge or brush to reach feet and back

Grooming/Hygiene

• Sit when grooming
• Don't lean forward unsupported
• Rest elbows on counter or dressing table
• Use long-handled brushes or combs to avoid holding arms overhead
• Use elevated commode seat

Dressing

• Loose fitting clothes allow you to breathe more easily
• Organize early so you won't have to rush
• Lay out clothes before starting, to avoid extra steps
• Bring your foot to your knee to apply shoes and socks so you won't have to lean over
• Wear slip-on shoes
• Use a long-handled shoe horn and sock aid
• Fasten bra in front and then turn to back
• Wear button front shirts rather than pullovers
• Use a reacher and/or a dressing stick

Walking/Moving

• Wear low-heeled shoes
• Wear shoes with a shock-absorbent sole or insole
• Use a wheelchair for long trips (the mail etc.)
• Maintain good posture when retrieving
• Use cruise control if possible
• Install hand rails and ramps
• Place chairs strategically to allow stops
• Disconnect automatic door closing mechanisms

Housekeeping

• Spread tasks out over the week
• Do a little bit each day
• Delegate heavy work
• Hire help
• Use a wheeled cart or carpenter's apron to carry supplies
• Do whatever you can sitting
• Use long-handled duster, mop etc.
• Use a long-handled dust pan

Shopping

• Make a list first
• Have someone help put groceries in the car
• Use a power scooter if the store has one
• Request store assistance with shopping and getting to the car
• Shop at less busy times
• Shop with a friend
• Delegate shopping
• Shop online!

Preparing Meals

• Assemble all ingredients before you start
• Use mixes or prepackaged foods
• Use cookware you can serve from
• Use smaller appliances (mixers, toaster, microwave)
• Use electric knife and can opener
• Buy ergonomically designed utensils
• Transport items on a rolling cart
• Store frequently used items at chest level to avoid bending and stretching
• Line ovens and burner drip pans with aluminum foil
• Sit while preparing food
• Rest elbows on table or counter
• Let dishes soak rather than scrubbing
• Let dishes air dry
• Use a dishwasher if possible
• Delegate dishwashing
• Use a jar opener
• Use a rubber mat or towel under mixing bowls to help steady them when mixing
• Don't lift heavy pans off the stove
• Ladle the food out at the stove
• Use mitten pot-holders to take advantage of the entire hand to lift
• Use place mats instead of tablecloths - they are more hygienic and easy to clean
• Use lightweight utensils
• Prepare double portions and freeze half for later
• Drag garbage bags instead of lifting

Doing Laundry

• Use a laundry cart on wheels
• Use an automatic washer and dryer if possible
• Sit to transport clothes to the dryer if possible
• Use a commercial pre-wash instead of scrubbing
• Wash bras and socks in a lingerie bag to avoid tangling
• Drain hand washables and press the water out instead of wringing
• Sit when ironing
• Adjust the ironing board height
• Slide the iron onto an asbestos pad between items to avoid lifting
• Use a lightweight iron
• Hang clothes on the doorknob instead of the top of the door

Taking Care of the Kids

• Plan activities around the table or in the living room to allow sitting
• Instead of going to the zoo, go to the park where you can sit or lie down
• Delegate some of the childcare responsibilities if possible
• Teach smaller children to climb on lap instead of being lifted
• Teach children to make a game out of some of the household chores

Working

• Plan workload around your best time of day
• Arrange workspace ergonomically
• Take periodic rest breaks

Getting Out

• Wear comfortable clothing
• Use adaptive equipment
• Select less strenuous activities
• Go out with a friend
• Use a wheelchair or golf cart