November is National Family Caregivers Month, and Seniors ETC, an in-home care company, is celebrating by offering caregivers life-balancing tips.

According to the National Family Caregivers Association, more than 50 million people provide care for a chronically ill, disabled or aged family member or friend during any given year. The typical family caregiver is a 46-year-old woman caring for her widowed mother who does not live with her. She is married and employed.

And she is overwhelmed.

"Unfortunately, this isn't a job you apply for, or work into it over time," states Jonnelle Leimbach, president of Seniors Etc. "It's usually something that springs upon you rather quickly, and something that causes immediate adjustment to your already busy schedule."

Rather than allowing the stress of the situation to completely overtake your lifestyle, Leimbach suggests these tips.

1. Schedule time specifically for each activity. Don't let your caregiver's role engulf you. Schedule time each day for every part of your life. Talk to your employer about flex time, and see if you can work earlier or later hours, depending on what's best for you. Organize your day to doing a little bit in all areas.

2. Rely on others to help. This isn't a time to think you can handle it all yourself. Sit down and talk with your spouse and children about taking over more of the household chores. Speak with other family members to help out one day a week.

3. Don't say yes to more than you can handle. If you've always been the one to volunteer for the school parties and to organize the fundraising drive, think again. Offer to help at simpler tasks that still allow you to become involved, yet don't take the time or commitment. Never give an immediate yes; always ask for a day to think about it, and see if you can put it into your schedule.

4. Ask for help. Realize your limitations. Now more than ever, there are many ways to approach and complete your tasks. In-home care is a reliable alternative for you to ensure the safety and well-being of your loved one. An in-home care specialist can help with simple things like driving to doctors appointments, ensure meal preparation and clean up, or personal hygiene, including bathing and grooming help.

5. Find resources in your area. Check with your local hospital, doctor's office or senior resource center for more information. Many communities have resource books that provide you with a wealth of information on local care providers. Learn as much as you can each step of the way, preparing yourself for more difficult future events.

About Seniors Etc, Inc.
Seniors ETC, Inc. provides high quality, affordable, in-home adult care services for families throughout the Rocky Mountain Region. It offers a full range of in home companion care services, including support after surgery or rehab; companion care for a parent, spouse or loved one; respite care; and hospice support. Seniors ETC, Inc. ensures each care provider is insured and bonded, and has passed a national screening investigation. Companion caregivers may be a Certified Nursing Assistant, an LPN, a RN, or someone who has experience working with people in a care-giving environment.

To learn about Seniors ETC, Inc visit
http://www.seniorsetc.com

For more information:
Jonnelle Leimbach
President, Seniors ETC
720.529.1211
www.seniorsetc.com