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Inside the Circle

Insights and Resources for Caregivers

Caregiving Tips

The Oxygen Mask Theory of Caregiving: Why Self-Care Comes First

What Is the Oxygen Mask Theory?

 

When you’re on an airplane, flight attendants always remind you: “Put your own oxygen mask on first before helping others.” At first, this advice feels counterintuitive, our instinct is to help others before ourselves. But the truth is clear…if you run out of oxygen, you won’t be able to help anyone at all.

The same principle applies to caregiving. To provide consistent, quality care for your loved one, you must take care of yourself first.

 

Caregiver Burnout: A Hidden Risk

Caregiving is an act of deep love, but it can also be exhausting. According to the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP (2020), nearly one in four caregivers rate their health as fair or poor, and the pressure of always being “on call” can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, or depression. 

Burnout doesn’t happen overnight. It sneaks in slowly, through:

  • Skipped meals or medical appointments
  • Constant fatigue or difficulty sleeping
  • Irritability and feelings of overwhelm
  • Losing joy in things you once loved

The risk is that burnout not only harms you but can reduce the quality of care you’re able to provide.

 

Why Self-Care Is Essential for Caregivers

 

Caring for yourself isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s the foundation of sustainable caregiving. When you invest in your health and emotional well-being, you’re reinforcing your ability to show up day after day with energy and compassion. Research from the Mayo Clinic shows that prioritizing your own health can significantly reduce caregiver stress and prevent burnout (Mayo, 2023).

 

This is where tools like Nomo Smart Care can help. Nomo offers peace of mind that your loved one is safe…freeing you to take that walk, keep that appointment, or simply rest without constant worry.

 

Practical Ways to “Put Your Mask On”

 

  • Accept help from others without guilt. Even small tasks delegated to friends or family give you breathing room.
  • Block off daily “you-time.” A short walk, meditation, or even a few pages of a book can restore balance.
  • Keep your own health appointments. You deserve care, too.
  • Use caregiving tech to ease the load. With Nomo’s fall detection and activity alerts, you can step away knowing support is always at hand.
  • Prioritize rest as preparation. Sleep fuels patience, clarity, and compassion.

 

Final Thought

The oxygen mask theory isn’t just about airplanes - it’s about life as a caregiver. By caring for yourself first, you ensure you can continue caring for your loved one with energy, compassion, and confidence. With Nomo Smart Care supporting you in the background, you can breathe easier knowing you don’t have to do it all alone.

 

 

 

Resources

AARP and National Alliance for Caregiving. Caregiving in the United States 2020. Washington, DC: AARP. May 2020. https://doi.org/10.26419/ppi.00103.001

Mayo. (2023b, August 9). Practical solutions for caregiver stress. Stress Management . https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/caregiver-stress/art-20044784


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