Being a family caregiver can be rewarding, but it’s also a commitment. Many family caregivers we know have mentioned feeling stressed on an ongoing basis. In fact, 66.6% of family caregivers report at least one mental health symptom.
To take care of your loved one sustainably, you’ll need to care for yourself as well. Luckily, there are many resources available in Columbia to help you refill your cup and avoid family caregiver burnout.
How Family Caregivers Can Manage Stress in Columbia
Whether you need to go on an adventure, build concrete plans for the future or just kick back, Columbia is full of resources to help you manage stress. There are even programs built specifically for seniors—try going to these with your loved one so you can decompress together.
- Step Outside
Getting in touch with nature isn’t just a fun way to spend an afternoon—time outside is actually linked to better mental health. And with a variety of beautiful public parks to visit, Columbia doesn’t disappoint.
For an afternoon of family-friendly fun, head down to Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. With over 3,000 animals and 5,700 varieties of plants, as well as regular events and educational programs, the Zoo is the perfect place for people of all ages to have fun while learning about nature.
If you’d prefer a quieter way to take in nature, the Saluda Riverwalk is right next door. This boardwalk path runs three miles up and down the river, with many spots perfect for fishing or birdwatching. With a level grade and multiple exit points, it’s also the perfect place to bring your loved one for an easy stroll.
When you just need the perfect spot in the sun, head over to the newly-renovated Virginia Hylton Park in Lexington. Its gentle walking trails, koi ponds and waterfall overlook make it the perfect spot for an afternoon of relaxed wandering or quiet reading.
Want to bring your loved one along? South Carolina’s All Park Passport gives seniors access to all its state parks at half price, making it easier to enjoy some fun in the sun with you.
- Spark Your Creativity
Whether or not you consider yourself an artist, creativity is a great way to let go of your stress. Devoting just a few hours to your favorite arts, crafts and hobbies can significantly reduce your stress. Even better, it can reduce ongoing anxiety if you make a regular practice of it.
One of our favorite places around Columbia to get creative is Lexington Paint & Pour. This open art studio offers relaxed painting classes and sessions with a variety of styles and subjects. Bring your own refreshments to snack and sip your way to a masterpiece.
If you’re feeling a little more studious, check out the adult learning programs at the Columbia Museum of Art. With professional artists leading classes like watercolor, calligraphy and even bookbinding in fully-equipped studios, it’s the best way in town to nurture your creative side.
- Reconnect With Community
One great way to relax and connect with the local community is to visit Soda City Market, Columbia’s year-round farmer’s market Every Saturday morning, Main Street hosts an average of 200 local vendors, plus a variety of live performers.
Columbia is paradise for sports fans. USC has one of the world’s best college athletics programs, with top-tier football, basketball and baseball teams. So next time you have a free Sunday, grab a ticket, go tailgating and get ready to cheer.
- Catch Up With a Friend
Connecting with others is crucial for mental health, and can help lessen the burden of family caregiver burnout. In fact, people who spend at least six hours a day socializing are twelve times more likely to say they’re happy than those who don’t. Try meeting up with a friend to catch up over a plate of fried green tomatoes at Libby’s of Lexington.
Family caregiving is also a lot easier with the support of others. Leeza’s Care Connection hosts support groups and events to help family caregivers connect and share tips and encouragement. It was founded by Emmy-winning talk show host Leeza Gibbons, a Columbia native whose mother and grandmother both had Alzheimer’s.
- Plan for the Future
Sometimes, the best way to reduce stress is to meet it head-on with a concrete plan. Luckily, we know many trustworthy professionals in the Columbia area who can help.
The Central Midlands Council of Governments Area Agency on Aging connects seniors and their families with helpful resources of all kinds. For legal issues, contact LawyerLisa, a law firm that specializes in issues that impact elders such as estate planning and probate.
Reach Out for Support
Being a family caregiver is meaningful, but it’s also challenging. But thanks to the support available in Columbia, you don’t have to face those challenges alone.
If you just need some time off to relax and recharge, FirstLight Home Care of Columbia can help. We offer temporary respite care, so you’ll know your loved one is in good hands while you relax and rejuvenate.
Whether you want to learn more about how we can help or just need to be connected to local resources, feel free to contact us. We’re here for you and your family.
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