Folding Self-Care Into Caregiving

One of the biggest barriers to caregiver self-care is the belief—and the reality—that it’s “one more thing.” One more appointment. One more task. One more responsibility when you’re already at capacity.

So instead of thinking of self-care as extra, here are ways to integrate it into what you’re already doing, making it easier, more efficient, and more sustainable.

1. Schedule Your Appointments Alongside Your Care Recipient’s

You’re already at the clinic. You’re already arranging transportation. You’re already blocking out the day. Use this to your advantage.

• Book your eye exam right before or after theirs.
• Schedule your dental cleaning on the same day as their cleaning or denture check.
• Pair your annual physical with their quarterly check-in.

This turns two exhausting days into one planned one—and reduces the emotional load of gearing up multiple times.

Tip: When you call to schedule your care recipient’s appointments, say: “Can we also schedule mine that same day? Coordinating care is much easier for us this way.”

Clinics are used to caregiver logistics—and most are happy to help.

2. Ask for Supportive Accommodations

You are allowed to ask for what makes life easier. Truly.

• Request longer appointment slots so you’re not rushed.
• Ask if you and your care recipient can be seen in the same room for routine visits.
• Request first-of-the-day or end-of-day appointments to minimize waiting.
• Ask for written summaries and portal messages instead of relying on verbal instructions.
• Request phone call follow-ups rather than additional in-person visits when appropriate.

These small accommodations can reduce stress, cognitive load, and physical strain for both of you.

3. Use Technology to Reduce “One More Thing”

Simple tools can create ease without adding complexity:

• Sync calendars so you’re reminded of your appointments as reliably as you are for theirs.
• Use online prescription refills instead of calling pharmacies.
• Sign up for patient portal notifications for both of you.
• Let technology do the remembering so your brain doesn’t have to.

4. Delegate One Task a Week — Even a Small One

It might be:

• Asking a neighbor to pick up groceries
• Letting a sibling schedule your appointment
• Handing off a prescription pick-up
• Inviting a friend to sit with your care recipient for 30 minutes

Think small and achievable. The goal isn’t to outsource everything—it’s to remind your nervous system that you don’t have to carry it all alone.

5. Reframe Self-Care as Care Planning

When you tend to yourself, you are protecting your care recipient’s stability. That is not selfish—it is strategic stewardship of the whole caregiving ecosystem.

If that helps soften the guilt, hold onto it.