How To Juggle

Most caregivers juggle multiple roles and are likely to find that the most precious commodity in their lives is time. You've probably heard how important it is to "take time for yourself," and if you're a caregiver you've probably also wondered how to make that happen on a regular basis.

Here are a few suggestions:

• Keep an appointment book or calendar available to schedule your day.
  • With an appointment book or calendar, you can make "appointments" for all kinds of things ranging from visits to the doctor to doing laundry. You may be surprised how much time you save just by sticking to a schedule.
  • If you use a computer, there are many software programs that you can use to set up a schedule. There's a good chance your computer already has this software installed.
• Delegate.
  • If someone else in your household has the time and ability to take care of a chore that you usually do, why not ask them to do it for you? If no one in your household can take over a chore, there might be a friend or neighbor willing to help.
  • You may also ask yourself if it would be worthwhile to hire someone to take over one or two of your tasks. Do you do your own yard work? Chances are there is a teenager in the neighborhood who would do at least some of it for a few dollars a week. Do you live in an area with a grocery delivery service? It might be worth a few dollars to have your groceries delivered if it means a free hour or two for yourself.

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