Spring is Tune Up Time for Caregivers and Alzheimer’s Patients
March 30, 2008 by Mary Emma Allen
Filed under Diseases & Conditions
“Come on, Mary, catch the ball,” the nurse called to my mother. I was surprised to see her grin and reach out to hold the lightweight ball that landed in her lap as she sat in her wheel chair.This was exercise time at the nursing home and their activities often consisted of tossing the soft balls.
“Throw it to me,” the nurse called again, and Mother lifted it from her lap.
This was a year round activity at the nursing home. However, our thoughts often turn to exercise and outdoor activities as spring arrives (with visions of what we’ll look like in shorts or bathing suit!). Exercises and more activity help the caregiver keep fit and have more energy for his/her tasks.
Scott Wharton, in his post, Tuesday Muscle Tune Up, at Health and Men, has some exercise and fitness ideas for men, which could be considered or adapted by the ladies. to get ready for spring. (Incidentally, many men are caregivers, too, or support for their wives in caretaking roles.)
What are you doing to keep fit and healthy so you remain capable in your caregiving role?
(c)2008 Mary Emma Allen
