Preparing for Fall and Winter as a Caregiver

As the leaves begin to change color, you might notice more than just a shift in the weather. For caregivers and care recipients alike, seasonal transitions can bring a mix of complicated emotions and challenges. Before we explore how to manage these experiences, let’s examine why the change in seasons might be difficult for caregivers.

Understanding the Emotional Impact of Seasonal Changes

Seasonal transitions affect us all, but for caregivers and care recipients, these changes may be particularly distinct. 

Katie is caring for her father, who has Alzheimer's. As autumn approaches, she notices him becoming more withdrawn and anxious. Shorter days and cooler weather seem to trigger memories and emotions for both of them. Katie finds herself overwhelmed and unsure how to manage her feelings during a time she associates with special remembrances. You might find yourself relating to this scenario as you experience sentiments such as:

• Nostalgia for past events.
• Sadness or grief, especially during holiday seasons.
• Anxiety around weather-related challenges.
• Isolation due to reduced outdoor activities.
• Frustration with physical limitations more apparent in certain seasons.
• Guilt about enjoying seasonal activities in which your care recipient can’t participate.
• Exhaustion from managing seasonal responsibilities alongside caregiving duties.

For care recipients, emotions are easily intensified by their condition or limited mobility. Frustration may result from their inability to participate in activities or traditions they once enjoyed, and this is a normal and valid response. Recognition and acknowledgment of feelings support managing the emotional impact of seasonal changes.

Practical Strategies for Managing Seasonal Changes

Transitions don't have to be overwhelming. Here are some simple, actionable steps to make seasonal changes more manageable for both you and your care recipient:

Adjusting Routines

• Gradually shift daily schedules to align with changing daylight hours.
• Incorporate indoor activities during extreme weather conditions.
• Maintain consistent meal and medication times to provide stability.

Preparing for Shifting Weather Challenges

• Ensure your care recipient has proper clothing and gear (e.g., warm coats, non-slip shoes).
• Prepare living spaces for weather changes (check heating systems and clear walkways).
• Devise a plan for power outages or severe weather events.

Creating a Nurturing Home Environment

• Add cheerful, season-appropriate decorations to brighten the space.
• Increase lighting, especially during darker months, to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
• Bring nature indoors using plants or seasonal flowers.

Self-Care During Seasonal Transitions

• Feeling constantly irritable or short-tempered.
• Experiencing guilt or resentment towards your care recipient.
• Neglecting your own health or personal needs.

When private time or respite care isn’t possible, consider these self-care practices in your daily routine:

• Practice deep breathing for a few minutes.
• Try a short, guided meditation using a free app or online resource.
• Take a moment to stretch or do gentle exercises.

• Set aside 15 minutes for a favorite hobby or activity.
• Listen to your favorite music or podcast while doing chores.
• Read a few pages of a book or magazine during breaks.

• Join an online support group for caregivers.
• Call or text a friend or family member.
• Share your experiences on trusted caregiver forums or social media groups.

• Schedule and attend regular check-ups.
• Take short walks or do simple exercises whenever possible.
• Prioritize adequate sleep and eating healthy meals.

Reflection Activity - Adjusting to the Change in Seasons

Take five minutes to reflect on seasonal changes and how they impact your caregiving role:

1. Find a quiet space and sit comfortably. Take a few deep breaths.
2. Think about how the changing season is affecting you and your care recipient. 
3. What emotions are you both experiencing? Note challenges and positive moments.
4. Based on your reflections, identify one way to better manage the seasonal transition beginning tomorrow. It could be as simple as spending a few minutes outside in the daylight or slightly adjusting your routine.

Looking Ahead

Understanding how seasonal changes affect both you and your care recipient is the first step in managing transitions more effectively. Remember, it's not just okay to ask for help and prioritize self-care — it's essential for your well-being and your ability to provide care.

In the weeks ahead, we will share articles that dive deeper into managing seasonal transitions at home and at work. If you have a tip on how you've managed seasonal changes as a caregiver, we'd love to hear from you. 

We also encourage you to explore the Caregiven app, which offers tools and resources specifically designed to help you manage tasks associated with seasonal changes, from organizing health check-ups to planning for weather-related emergencies.