10 Tips for finding peace without going “off the grid.”

A day without phones, notifications, news, and constant interruptions may sound ideal, especially when life gets busy and caregiving responsibilities stack up. While it may be tempting to go “off the grid,” technology is an important part of caregiving, from managing tasks and health information to staying connected to senior loved ones.

So, how do you reduce screen time and digital overwhelm when your phone is an essential – and often very helpful – part of caring for your loved one?

Learn more about digital overwhelm, the unique ways it affects caregivers, plus tips for finding greater peace while still getting the information you need.

What is Digital Overwhelm?

Digital overwhelm happens when there is too much information from digital sources coming to you faster than your brain can reasonably process or respond.

That information isn’t just big news stories or urgent health information. Even trivial information, like an ad or “fluff” news piece, requires your brain’s processing power. As you scroll, your brain is working to determine what is important enough to remember, and how or whether to respond.

All that extra work can affect mental, emotional, and physical health, especially for caregivers who are already managing so much. You may feel like you are unable to put down your phone, even when you’d like to.  

Signs of digital overwhelm include:

• Fatigue
• Anxiety
• Trouble sleeping
• Eye strain and headaches
• Difficulty making decisions and concentrating

Digital Overwhelm and Caregivers

Caregivers are already managing an enormous amount of information about their loved ones’ health, day-to-day needs, and long-term plans.

While technology can help with caregiving, it can also contribute to digital overwhelm and caregiver fatigue.

Technology, including home monitors and smart home devices, can help seniors stay at home longer and feel more independent. At the same time, managing that technology means caregivers are on the receiving end of countless alerts and notifications – everything from home monitors to health information portals, to old-fashioned phone calls.

10 Tips for Managing Digital Overwhelm for Caregivers

Fortunately, there are ways to manage digital overwhelm without going off the grid, like adjusting phone settings, and creating new habits for a more peaceful relationship with technology.

On Your Phone

Some of these tips require changing settings on your phone. Most settings are simple to use and can be found with a quick search, or by asking a tech savvy friend or relative for help. 

1. Minimize notifications. Turn off notifications for the non-essentials, like social media, news, email, and shopping apps.
2. Assign special notification sounds or ringtones to the most important people, so you know who’s calling or texting without picking up your phone.
3. Use your phone’s “do not disturb” features. Did you know that you can set certain people’s calls to always ring through? Explore this option on your phone, and be sure to test that it’s working properly.
4. Set timers and limits on apps that take up your time, like social media, news, and shopping.
5. Unsubscribe from retail sales emails and texts as you receive them. (You know the ones – the companies that email or text you three times a day, and every time you browse their site.)

New Habits for a More Peaceful Relationship with Technology

6. Take a break from social media. It’s okay to step away from the party, whether for a day, a week, or longer.
7. Put your phone out of sight – but within earshot – during meals, special times with loved ones, and any time you’d prefer to relax or focus.
8. Let yourself be bored! Start to notice when you pull out your phone during idle times, like standing in line at the grocery store or waiting for an appointment. Instead, take three deep breaths and notice what’s around you.
9. Consider a “digital vacation.” One you’ve set your emergency contacts, put your phone on “do not disturb” for a day. Just like you were traveling, let those close to you who share responsibilities know what you’re doing and how to reach you in an emergency.
10. Take it easy on yourself! Social media and news feeds are designed to keep you scrolling, and it can be a challenge to step away.

Managing digital overload can be challenging, especially for caregivers who rely on technology to help them look after senior loved ones. However, developing a more peaceful relationship with technology means that you can make the most of what it offers to you as a caregiver, without the overwhelm.

Look for more information about caring for yourself while caring for senior loved ones? Find more posts like this one on “Caring for Caregivers.”.  

Learn More About Why Families Rely On Sunnyside Manor

When you have questions about senior living, we are here to help. Sunnyside Manor offers assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Learn more about Sunnyside Manor’s resources for caregivers. Whether you’re looking for short-term support or a longer-term plan, begin with our “Getting Started” guide. Please call us at 888-696-2052 to speak with a senior living expert.

Sunnyside Manor, located in Wall NJ, is the area’s premier family-owned senior living community. The community features three distinctive neighborhoods: Independence ‘Plus’ Assisted Living, Recollections Memory Care, and Long-Term Care & Short-Term Rehabilitation. Respite stays and palliative care are available in all neighborhoods.