Greetings friends, clients, and colleagues! We are making an attempt to re-start our “monthly” newsletter. (We’ve been blessed with an ample of amount of growth and work this year which we thank you for!)
The holidays are a time for peace, joy and happiness, but they also offer plenty of reasons for stress levels to reach a new height —gifts that need to be purchased and wrapped, cards to be mailed out, multiple social gatherings to attend, and family traditions to uphold. On top of this may be the responsibility to take care of dependent family members and/or aging parents. We often see others, or ourselves, putting the needs of others at the expense of one’s own care and well-being. At Santa Barbara Fiduciary, we have a proactive approach to managing our clients financial and personal care. As we move into the holiday season, we think its an appropriate time to consider how we plan to be proactive about self-care.
We really like the linked article from the Alzheimer’s Association, “Being a Healthy Caregiver”. Their “Five tips to help you cope,” gives helpful suggestions on managing stress, being realistic, giving yourself credit – not guilt, taking breaks, and accepting changes. We find these tips applicable whether caring for someone aging or with dementia, or not, and not just during the holiday season, but everyday.
As they say on airplanes, put your oxygen mask first. The best thing you can do for the person you are caring for is to stay healthy, both emotionally and physically. Of course, we would add to their list, giving us a call if you still find yourself in need of support.
Wishing you peace and strength, today and throughout the holiday season.
Best Regards,
Lindsay Leonard
P.S. We’ve also set-up a FaceBook page for Santa Barbara Fiduciary, and would love for you to check-it out!
