GON Reader Question
Chronic Illness: How Do I Keep Up With Daily Chores and Big Projects?
"You asked what topics
we'd like to see covered, so here goes. If there are others like me with chronic illness, we have all to do to keep up with daily chores, let alone, big projects.
My husband expends his
energy on the "manly" chores and also isn't bothered by a mess or greasy cupboards. I thought of hiring someone, but that gets expensive.
What do you suggest? Hire someone for one job at a
time? We are both retired and get tired!"
-- Debbie Wochos
Response from Maria Gracia
Dear Debbie,
It's wonderful that you and your husband are navigating through daily chores and responsibilities, especially considering the challenges posed by chronic illness. It's clear that both of you are putting in effort, each focusing on tasks that align with your strengths and preferences. Teamwork makes a significant difference in managing household responsibilities.
Breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable jobs is an excellent strategy. Tackling one job at a time can make the workload feel more manageable and less overwhelming. Of course, it's important to be happy with what you DO accomplish each day, rather than fretting about what still needs to be done.
Given your concerns about the cost of hiring someone for regular cleaning, it's a great idea to approach this decision in a way that fits within your budget and energy levels.
For instance, if it's within your budget, you might consider hiring someone for a specific task on a periodic basis, like a monthly deep cleaning. This way, you can focus on day-to-day maintenance and leave the more intensive cleaning to a professional as needed.
Cleaning as you go (like wiping the bathroom counter when you're done getting ready in the morning or putting the dishes in the dishwasher right after mealtimes) is a practical approach that can prevent the accumulation of mess and make daily life more manageable. Small, consistent efforts can lead to a cleaner and more organized living environment over time.
It's important to find a balance that works for both of you, considering your health conditions and energy levels. By approaching tasks in a gradual and strategic manner, you can maintain a harmonious home without feeling overly burdened. Remember, taking care of yourselves and each other is a priority, and finding solutions that enhance your quality of life is key.
Wishing you and your husband continued teamwork and success in managing your household in a way that suits your needs and circumstances.
