Conserving energy

Many of us as we get older can begin to experience chronic conditions and/or chronic pain. the following is from Oregon Health and Science University, Occupational Therapy and it addresses the issue of managing your energy while dealing with a chronic illness or condition.

Before  beginning a task, determine:

1.   WHY is it necessary?

2.   WHAT is the purpose?

3.   WHEN should it be done?

4.   WHERE should it be done? 

5.   HOW should it be done?

SCHEDULING: Plan ahead to schedule daily tasks, rests and appointments according to your abilities. Spread things out throughout the day, week, month, etc.

Spread heavy and light physical tasks throughout the day, considering what the best time is for you.

Prioritize tasks according to your needs and desires. When do you want or need to do for yourself that is realistic within your present abilities?

Delegate responsibilities and determine what you need help with, who can help you and a date and time you will be receiving help.

PACING: Balance work and rest. Include rest periods during and between activities.

·      Avoid rushing.

   ·      Allow more time to complete a task.

   ·      Know your limits.

   ·      Pain is no gain – listen to your body.

   ·      Analyze the demands of the task:

   ·      Are they physical, cognitive or 

          emotional.

   ·      Balance and vary each type of task 

          throughout the day

   ·      Include rest periods

   ·      Schedule high demand tasks for your 

          peak performance time of day

SIMPLIFYING: Analyze each task and determine the easiest way to do it

·       Avoid unnecessary motions

·       Avoid unnecessary details

·       Sit instead of stand

·       Use two hands instead of one

·       Slide instead of lifting

·       Use modern equipment

ORGANIZING: Set up your environment to avoid unnecessary steps.

·       Have things in easy reach

·       Have chairs to sit on

·       Keep things in the same place each 

        time to avoid search time

·       Avoid unnecessary clutter

STRESS MANAGEMENT: The above-mentioned techniques will help you decrease your stress through increased energy efficiency, knowing your strengths and limitations and sharing this with others, and avoiding over-fatigue which ultimately leads to increased stress.

·       Set realistic goals

·       Live in the present, not the past or  

        future

·       Think about what you can do not what you are unable to do

·       Accept what cannot be changed

·       Practice good posture and breathing 

        techniques

·       Eat nutritionally

·       Learn from your success AND your 

        mistakes

·       Listen to your body

·       Save time and energy for fun

·       As questions. Take control of your 

        illness. Don't let it control you.