Planning and organizing |
Alternate tasks that take lots of energy with those that take less. |
Plan activities daily as well as weekly to better alternate tasks. |
Delegate as much as possible. It helps you get tasks done and it makes those who want to help feel useful. |
Eliminate steps or tasks that are not essential by combining chores or errands. |
Arrange your household so that most activities can be done on one floor. |
Organize ahead of time so you don't have to rush. |
Pacing |
Balance activities so you alternate resting and doing. |
Stop to rest before you get tired even if it means stopping in the middle of a task. |
Try to avoid spurts of activity; this can drain energy. |
Pace activities on good days as well as bad days. |
Develop a routine to prevent overdoing. |
Positioning |
Sit to do things whenever possible. |
Use assistive devices: walkers, scooters, canes, handrails, crutches, grab bars. Assistive devices and adaptive equipment can save energy by allowing you to do things without having to bend or reach. |
Avoid heavy lifting (such as children, pots and pans, and laundry). |
Use carts or wagons to move things from room to room and place to place. |
Wear a fanny pack, carpenter's belt, or jacket or sweater with pockets to carry things. |
Prioritizing |
Focus on things you enjoy doing. |
Be realistic with yourself. |
When you're too tired to eat |
When just the thought of cooking or eating a meal makes you tired, try these hints to save energy: |
Let others help prepare or bring food. Family or friends usually like to help! |
Shop at less busy times. |
Meal preparation |
Assemble all ingredients before starting. |
Use mixes or prepackaged foods. |
Use cookware you can serve from. |
Use small, lightweight appliances and labor-saving devices. |
Buy utensils that fit comfortably in the hand. |
Store frequently used items at chest level to minimize bending and reaching. |
Line ovens and drip pans with foil for easier cleanup. |
Let dishes air dry or use a dishwasher. |
Childcare |
Plan activities or outings at a place that will allow you to sit or lie down. |
Take advantage of daycare programs. |
Teach children to make a game out of household chores. |
Work |
Plan work around your best times of the day. |
Organize work centers so that equipment is within easy reach. |
Create shortcuts. |
Take rest breaks. |
Work part-time if possible. |
Leisure |
Plan activities that allow you to sit or lie down. |
Plan social events at peak energy times. |
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