Caring for an elderly loved one can be incredibly time-consuming. At the same time, going to school is a priority for many. How can you manage these two potentially conflicting priorities? In this article, we will provide tips and advice on how to balance going to school and caring for an elderly loved one. Keep reading to learn how to make it work.
Earn a degree online to spend more time at home.
Going to school and caring for an elderly loved one can be a difficult balance to manage. But it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t continue your education. A great way to balance your responsibilities is to earn your degree through an online program so that you can spend more time at home. For example, you can earn your master of education in curriculum and instruction online through a university. The curriculum and instruction program focuses on teaching strategies, curriculum design, instruction methods, assessments, evaluation processes, and research-based approaches that help educators improve the learning environment for all learners regardless of age or ability level. Through this degree program, students will learn techniques such as differentiated instruction which allows them to tailor classroom activities so that they meet the needs of diverse groups of students.
Get help from family, friends, and professionals.
Family members such as siblings or extended relatives can provide invaluable support when managing both tasks. They can pitch in by taking on additional household chores or providing respite care for your elderly relative during times when you need extra study time. Friends may also be willing to lend a hand in various ways whether that’s just being available for moral support or offering practical assistance with things like transportation and grocery shopping.
Keep up with self-care.
It is essential to find a balance between taking care of your loved one and keeping up with schooling. But it is also important to make sure you don’t neglect your own self-care practices in the process. Self-care includes any activity that recharges and refreshes you mentally, physically, emotionally, or spiritually so that you are better equipped to handle life’s challenges. Whether this means taking time out for yourself each day through meditation or exercise, eating healthy meals regularly, reading books, or watching movies for relaxation and enjoyment, or simply spending time outdoors getting fresh air. All these activities should not be sacrificed in order to juggle caring for your elder as well as attending classes. You may even want to consider setting aside some specific times during the week dedicated solely towards self-care so that it becomes part of your routine rather than something extra you have no energy left over for at the end of the day. Allowing yourself regular moments away from responsibilities will help keep stress levels low and give you more energy throughout both tasks.
Use technology to stay connected.
With the help of technology, it is possible to maintain social connections. Utilizing technology can help bridge the gap between in-person visits and ensure that your loved one remains engaged with their community. If your loved one is still capable and independent, they can even use Uber for seniors by simply by calling or texting the service. Search for “Uber rides near me” to figure out the best ways for seniors to get around by themselves.
Overall, balancing school and caring for an elderly loved one can be a difficult task. It is important to take time to make sure both responsibilities are being met in a way that is healthy for both the student and the elderly loved one. It is important to have open communication, set boundaries, and utilize available resources when needed.