Few days back I had written a blog on Palliative Care, which is basically a care provided to elderly people suffering from some disease which needs external care, as due to old age they are unable to care for themselves. However the stress that accumulates from care giving is also a serious matter. Care-giver stress can cause serious health conditions and lead to resentment and depression. A recent study published in papers states that care-givers of individuals with dementia had a 63% higher mortality rate than non-care-givers of the same age.
Now care-givers also need stress busters, and one of the techniques for stress busing is writing; writing a journal requires little time. The beauty of journaling allows care-givers to channel their innermost thoughts and feelings of being overwhelmed, thereby feeling lighter at the end of the process.
All you need is a notebook or a notes file on your computer or mobile device. Care-giver can set a few minutes aside. There are no set rule for journaling; write as much or as little as one desire. Journaling tips for care-givers include finding a quiet space, being consistent; and writing honestly.
What Are the Benefits of Journaling for Care-Givers?
- Journaling reduces stress of care-giver of the elderly– You (Care-giver) can write about anger, and resentment that might bother you due to care-giving. Feel the intensity of stress release from your body, allowing you to be calm. Journaling can be cathartic experience, helping you to articulate and release pent-up emotions that might otherwise impact your mental and physical health negatively.
- Benefits of journaling for care-givers mental health- Research indicates that expressive writing can bolster immune system functioning and enhance the body’s resilience to stress, infection, and disease. Journaling brings benefits like: lowered blood pressure, enhanced sleep patterns, reduced doctor’s visit, accelerated healing, improved mobility for arthritis sufferers, and more. By consistently journaling, care-givers can maintain better overall health, which in turn enables them to provide better care.
- Problem-solving while taking care of seniors- Next time you (care-giver) find yourself in a tricky care-giving challenge, try writing your problems down; jotting down the problem might help you come up with a creative solution. Think of your notebook as a blank canvas to brainstorm solutions or how to approach a particularly delicate situations with a senior. Writing can help clarify your thoughts, making it easier to see potential solutions you might have missed otherwise.
- Resolves conflicts with elders- When you (care-giver) set out to document conflicts or misunderstandings, it allows you to process emotions and gain fresh perspective. This perspective can resolve conflicts with elders. It can also foster resolution and understanding. By jotting down observations and patterns, you gain insights into improving care-giving routines and identifying for enhancement or simplification. Moreover, having a written record can serve as reference point for future similar situations, helping you handle more effectively.
- Helps in self-reflection while doing care-giving duties for elders- Documenting conflicts or misunderstandings allows you to process emotions and gain perspective, fostering resolution and understanding. It is easy to get lost in the demands of care-giving duties journaling can help you process emotions, feel lighter and identify areas of improvement in care-giving. It is also a few moments of introspection, becoming aware of your thoughts and feelings, and getting in touch with your true self. Self-reflection through journaling helps you understand your emotional responses, leading to greater self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
- Enhance emotional intelligence in caregivers – Journaling not only helps in processing emotions but also in recognizing and understanding them better. By regularly documenting your feelings and reactions, you can track your emotional journey and notice patterns. This can lead to improved emotional regulation, helping you respond more calmly and thoughtfully to care-giving challenges.
- Helps in positive thinking while providing care–giving to elders – Regular journaling can help create a positive feedback loop. By acknowledging and celebrating small victories and positive experiences in your care-giving journey, you reinforce positive thinking. This can be incredibly motivating and uplifting especially during tough times. Incorporating journaling into your routine as a care-giver can make a significant difference. It provides a safe space to vent, reflect and grow. By understanding and addressing your own emotions, you can become a more effective and compassionate care-giver. Take a few moments each day to journal and experience the profound benefits it can bring to both your life and the lives of those you care for.
Waiting for your feedback on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
28th April 2025