“Affordable Self-Care Ideas When You Can’t Get Away”

Caring for a mum with Alzheimer’s changes everything. The days can blur together — meals, medications, doctor’s visits, gentle reminders, and those endless small moments of redirection and reassurance. You love her deeply, but you’re tired, stretched thin, and sometimes you wonder if there’s anything left for you.

We’re told to “take time for self-care,” but what if you can’t get away? What if respite care isn’t available, or your budget won’t stretch to a weekend off? The truth is, self-care doesn’t have to mean spa days or long breaks. It can mean finding small, affordable moments that refill your spirit without leaving the house.

Here are a few ideas that have helped me (and might help you too).

Start the Morning with One Gentle Ritual

Before the day begins, take five quiet minutes just for you — a cup of tea by the window, soft music, or a few deep breaths before you walk into her room. It’s not about how long it lasts; it’s about claiming a moment that’s yours.

If Mum wakes early, try inviting her into the ritual. Sit together in silence or listen to birdsong. Sometimes calm shared energy can set the tone for both of you.

Step Outside Every Day — Even Just to the Garden

Even if you can’t go far, fresh air heals. Step outside and stretch your body. If Mum is safe indoors or resting, take two minutes on the doorstep. If not, bring her with you. Many carers say short “porch sits” are their sanity savers.

Simplify Meals — Nourish Without the Guilt

It’s okay if dinner isn’t from scratch every night. Keep a few go-to healthy shortcuts: frozen vegetables, ready-made soups, slow-cooker stews you can portion and freeze. Eating well is self-care too. And remember — toast and tea can be a perfectly fine dinner on a rough day.

Bring Beauty Into Your Everyday Space

Fresh flowers, a candle, or even a favorite photo can lift your mood. Try turning your kitchen window ledge into a “tiny sanctuary” — a place that reminds you there’s life and softness beyond the routine.

It’s not about extravagance; it’s about beauty that feels within reach.

Write for Five Minutes Before Bed

A quick “gratitude list” can help empty your mind before sleep. Write three things that went right — no matter how small.

• Mum smiled when I played her favorite song.

• The tea stayed warm until I finished it.

• I took a full, deep breath.

Over time, these small notes build a quiet kind of resilience.

Ask for (and Accept) Small Help

Sometimes self-care looks like letting others in. If a neighbour offers to pick up milk and bread, say yes. If your sister, brother or friend says, “Call me when it’s hard,” take them up on it. Connection costs nothing and restores everything.

Remember: You don’t have to do this perfectly. You just have to keep showing up with love — for your mum, and for yourself.

A Final Thought

You’re doing one of the hardest and most sacred jobs — walking your mum through her fading memories with patience and love. But you’re still you, and you matter. You don’t need permission to rest, laugh, or care for yourself. Those small acts of kindness toward yourself aren’t selfish — they’re what make the care sustainable.

So tonight, light that candle, put on your comfy socks, and take three deep breaths. You’ve earned them.