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Self Care
Reviewed: December 2006
Suggested Strategies for Energy Conservation
Activities of Daily Living
- Sit down to bathe and dry off. Wear a terry robe instead of drying off.
- Use a shower/ bath organizer to decrease leaning and reaching.
- Install grab rails in the bathroom.
- Use extension handles on sponges and brushes.
- Use an elevated toilet seat.
Organize time to avoid rushing
- Lay out clothes and toiletries before dressing.
- Minimize leaning over to put on clothes and shoes.
- Bring your foot to your knee to apply socks and shoes. Fasten bra in front then turn to back.
- Modify the home environment to maximize efficient use of energy. Example: Place chairs to allow rest stops (e.g. along a long hallway).
- Wear comfortable clothes and low-heeled, slip on shoes. Wear button front shirts rather than pull-overs.
Housekeeping
- Schedule household tasks throughout the week.
- Do housework sitting down when possible. Use long-handled dusters, dust mops, etc. Use a wheeled cart or carpenter's apron to carry supplies.
- Delegate heavy housework, shopping, laundry, and child care when possible.
- Drag or slide objects rather than lifting. Use proper body mechanics. Use your leg muscles not your back when working.
- Sit when ironing and take rest periods.
- Stop working before becoming tired.
Shopping
- Organize list by aisle.
- Use a grocery cart for support.
- Shop at less-busy times.
- Request assistance in getting to the car.
- Purchase clothing that doesn't require ironing.
Meal Preparation
- Use convenience foods/ easy-to-prepare foods.
- Use small appliances (they take less effort to use).
- Arrange the preparation environment for easy access to frequently used items.
- Prepare meals sitting down.
- Soak dishes instead of scrubbing and let dishes air dry.
- Prepare double portions and freeze half.
Child Care
- Plan activities to allow for sitting down (e.g. drawing, pictures, playing games, reading, computer games).
- Teach children to climb up on the lap or into the highchair instead of being lifted.
- Make a game of the household chores so that children will want to help.
- Delegate childcare when possible.
Workplace
- Plan workload to take advantage of peak energy times. Alternate physically demanding tasks with sedentary tasks.
- Arrange work environment for easy access to commonly used equipment and supplies.
Leisure
- Do activities with a companion.
- Select activities that match energy level.
- Balance activity and rest (don't get overtired).
Fatigue Fighting Tips for Cancer Caregivers
Below is a list of Fatigue Fighting Tips for cancer caregivers. It is important to maintain your own health and well being so that you can provide the best possible care to your loved one.
- Take some quality time for yourself - schedule a day off or some quiet time at home.
- Watch for signs of stress, such as impatience, loss of appetite, or difficulty sleeping.
- Don't be afraid to ask for or accept help from friends or family - suggest specific tasks or projects that they can do to help you.
- Make sure you are educated about your loved one's illness -knowledge is empowering.
- Use resources in your community that can help you and your loved ones. Take advantage of transportation agencies, home care services, support groups and educational programs.
- Don't be afraid to openly acknowledge your caregiving situation or discuss your feelings with family and friends. With proper support and education, caregiving can actually bring families closer together.
- Give yourself credit - the care you give does make a difference.
The BC Cancer Agency maintains a database on commonly used unconventional therapies available to cancer patients.
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