Rested parents and carers make for better care
By Russ Maher RN BSc (Hons) Cardiac, BeingWELL.Me founder Abstract: Based on cardiac nursing experience, this article examines the direct correlation between parent/carer rest and care quality. It presents scientific evidence showing how sleep deprivation and stress impair critical caregiving abilities, from decision-making to emotional regulation. The piece provides practical rest strategies and challenges the guilt cycle many parents and/or carers experience, demonstrating that well-rested caregivers deliver consistently superior care while ensuring sustainable caregiving practices. BeingWELL.Me's philosophy emphasizes nurturing both parents/carers and loved ones equally, with THRIVE programs designed to ensure all rest strategies support both parties' wellbeing—young and old—and complement existing medical treatments without negative health impacts.
RESPITE & CARER SUPPORT
5/11/20252 min read


As an experienced nurse and founder of BeingWELL.Me, I've witnessed countless times how the physical and mental state of a parent and carer directly influences the quality of care they provide. The correlation is undeniable: well-rested, balanced parents/carers consistently deliver superior care compared to those running on empty.
At BeingWELL.Me, we recognize that nurturing both parents/carers and loved ones of all ages is essential for optimal health outcomes and sustainable care practices.
The Science Behind Rest and Caregiving
Research consistently shows that sleep deprivation and chronic stress impair:
Decision-making capabilities
Emotional regulation
Physical coordination
Immune system function
Memory and attention to detail
For parents and/or carers, these impairments can have serious consequences. Missing medication schedules, failing to notice subtle changes in a loved one's condition, or simply lacking the patience for challenging behaviors—all become more likely when we're exhausted.
Quality Over Quantity
It's not just about the number of hours you spend caregiving; it's about the quality of attention and care you can provide during those hours. A rested parent/carer brings:
Enhanced observational skills: Noting small changes that could indicate health improvements or declines
Better emotional availability: Providing comfort and support with genuine warmth
Improved problem-solving: Addressing challenges calmly and creatively
Consistent care routines: Maintaining the stability loved ones of all ages often need
Physical capability: Being strong enough to assist with mobility and daily activities
Breaking the Guilt Cycle
Many parents and/or carers feel guilty about resting while their loved one is "still sick" or "needs them." This thinking is fundamentally flawed. Your loved one needs you at your best, not depleted and resentful. Consider this: would you prefer a driver who's been awake for 24 hours or one who's well-rested?
Practical Rest Strategies for Parents and/or Carers
Micro-rests: Five-minute meditation or breathing exercises throughout the day
Strategic scheduling: Plan demanding care tasks when you're typically most energetic
Sleep hygiene: Prioritize quality sleep with consistent bedtimes and wake times
Physical movement: Even brief walks can reduce stress and improve sleep quality
Delegation: Accept help with non-critical tasks to preserve energy for essential care
The Ripple Effect of Rested Caregiving
When you're rested, everyone benefits:
Your loved one receives more attentive, patient care
Family dynamics remain more harmonious
You model healthy self-care behaviors
Care tasks feel less burdensome
Your capacity for empathy and understanding expands
Creating Sustainable Care Practices
Good care isn't about martyrdom—it's about sustainability. The goal is to create a caregiving environment that can be maintained over the long term, which often means years. This requires acknowledging that you're a human being with needs, not a limitless resource.
BeingWELL.Me's THRIVE Programs for Rest and Care
BeingWELL.Me THRIVE programs are designed with both parents/carers and loved ones of all ages in mind, ensuring that:
All rest strategies complement existing medical treatments
Care remains appropriate and supportive without negative health impacts
Both parties experience symptom relief and improved wellbeing
Parents/carers can rest assured that their care aligns with therapeutic regimes