Vacation Planning for Family Caregivers

This is the time of year that many of us look forward to summer vacation-a much-needed break from our day to day responsibilities and an oppurtunity to rest, have fun and re-charge. Unfortunately, it is often the people who are most in need of some time off-those with the largest amount of work and/or family responsibilities-who find it the hardest to get away. Family caregivers-spouses caring for husbands or wives, or adult children or grandchildren caring for elderly relatives-often fall into this category.

If you are a the part-time or full-time caregiver for an elderly loved one, it is understandable to feel overwhelmed, or even a little guilty, about leaving town for a few days or weeks. However, it is also important to understand the significance of maintaing your own health and how taking vacations-even short ones-can do wonders for warding off the physical and emotional effects of caregiver stress.

How do you refuel? How do you get help with your family members? How do you vacation?

Thoughts and ideas on how to find time to vacation and what avenues you can take to find care for your loved ones.