Reducing Stress when Caring for a Friend or Relative in Hospice Care

We often overlook the person who provides the care for someone who is terminally ill. Taking care of someone who is seriously ill can have a wide range of effects on the primary caregiver. The stress from dealing with a terminal illness can cause anxiety, anger, depression, and exhaustion. Finding out about these effects and ways to deal with them can be helpful and make a difference in quality of life for everyone.

An article at the National Cancer Institute Web site also applies to caring for people with other serious illnesses. The article covers a wide range of topics, including dealing with the physical, mental, spiritual, and social aspects of providing care to a person with a life-threatening illness.

Caregivers may find the stress makes it difficult to relax. Meditation, exercise, and other activities may help

one to relax. A heating pad will relax tense muscles and may help you go to sleep when feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

Maine Warmers microwave heating pads that are easy to use and are portable and their cozy Sheep, Dachshund Neck Warmer, and Comforting Bear Warmers make perfect gifts for someone who is caring for a relative or friend in in Hospice care.