Living with a chronic illness certainly takes a toll on a person’s physical wellbeing, but it also does a number on their mental wellbeing. The activities of daily living (ADL) can become overwhelming obstacles for those suffering with chronic illness. The mental effect of needing assistance with the basic activities of daily living, coupled with the demands it makes on family members, can be a major source of stress for everyone involved. Finding ways to relieve that stress will not only improve the body’s responsiveness to medical treatment, but will improve quality of life. Here are some relaxation techniques you might consider:
Meditate
Perform visualization
Practice deep breathing
Have a go at yoga
Listen to music
Go for a walk
Try aromatherapy
Get a massage
Take up a hobby
Read a book
Visit the Spa
Spend time with friends (especially those that make you laugh)
A good first step to help patients reduce stress and improve their quality of life is to refer to home health and hospice. Patients receive high quality care in the serenity and comfort of their homes, which reduces both apprehension and stress.
April is National Stress Awareness Month. Maximize your marketing throughout the month by emphasizing the comfort and convenience of home care.
Spread the word:
Post about stress management and relaxation techniques on your social media outlets throughout the month.
Visit your referral sources and provide information on coping with chronic illness they can share with their patients.
Make life a little easier for the clinicians in your service area by distributing discharge planner brochures with solutions for post hospital care.
Partner with local alternative healers in your community and host a mini fair at senior centers throughout your community. Have your PTs and OTs demonstrate safe exercises that can help with mobility and in turn reduce stress.
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