One of our commitments is to support home caretakers in their role. Caring for a loved one through the end of their life is sacred work that requires a tremendous amount of energy, attention and heart. Navigating the daily details and challenges while bearing the many emotions and exhaustion that can accompany this time may feel overwhelming to say the least. At HVOSC, not only are we focused on providing skilled and compassionate care to those with life-limiting illnesses, we aim to support their loved ones and caretakers as well.

While a weekend away or long bubble bath may be out of reach during the times when they might be needed most, little things like a five-minute stretch or having your favorite drink on hand can ease some of the overwhelm and reduce burnout. Aside from services and support from hospice organizations such as HVOSC, here are a handful of simple things you can do to provide yourself with some ease and care. 

*Find moments to move your body in ways that feel meaningful to you. Whether it’s taking a run or walk around the block, setting aside a few minutes to stretch, listening to a favorite song and moving to the music, or even laying spread eagle on the floor for five minutes, your body will thank you.

*Have easy, comforting meals and favorite beverages on hand. It seems like a little thing, but having your favorite kind of juice or snack readily available can help you to stay hydrated and fed – and that’s a BIG thing! Release yourself from any notions of “should” and consider how to nourish yourself with ease during this time.

*Whether it’s virtual, over the phone or in person, connecting with friends and loved ones as well as those who might be going through a similar situation can be as nourishing to the heart as easy snacks are nourishing to the body! You are not alone.

*As much as possible, prioritize sleep. Sleep is often one of the first things to suffer during challenging times and that makes Everything even harder. It is worth making a plan with the purpose of prioritizing sleep and other forms of rest.

*Create a network of support for daily tasks. That may look like sharing chores and responsibilities with a partner, friend or family member, it might look like ordering groceries to go and hiring a local high school student to do some like cleaning or yardwork, and you can definitely consider reaching out to Hospice Volunteers – we’d love to help!!

*Treat yourself compassionately. Come back to compassion, over and over again. Liberally pour it over your entire Self. This is a hard thing, and you are doing it.

As hospice volunteers, we aim to offer this kind of support for those who are currently navigating the journey of a life-limiting condition, and their loved ones. If you have questions about receiving support, please call 207-474-7775. We’d love to talk to you.

You can also reach out if you would be interested in becoming a volunteer or donating to our organization so that we can continue to show up for our community in this way.