Tips for daily living

For those living with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia, limitations on daily routines are imposed by these illnesses. Simple tasks to healthy persons can cause great fatigue for those with CFS and FMS. Here are some tips to help pace yourself and minimize wasted energy.

PACE YOURSELF

• Plan your day to allow for a balance of rest and activity
• Don't wait until you are tired before you stop and rest
• Determine if the activity is necessary and if you are the best person to do it
• Break activities down into steps
  

BATHING

• Wash with a bath mitt
• Use a seat in shower
• Install grab bars in the tub and shower 
• Use a terry cloth bath robe. It will help in drying you off when getting out of the tub 

DRESSING 

• Replace buttons with Velcro, or use a buttonhook
• Wear shoes with Velcro closures or those that slip on
• Use a long handled shoe horn
• Sew pull loops to the top of socks

GROOMING

• Use an electric toothbrush or razor 
• Sit on a stool while shaving, applying makeup or doing your hair
• Use warm, not hot water for baths and showers. Hot water can increase muscle fatigue
  

AROUND THE HOUSE

• Reschedule daily tasks so you do some only 3 or 4 times a week so you have time to rest each day
• Delegate tasks: ask children or other family members to help
• Schedule regular rest periods each day
• Use a cart, wagon or basket to carry things from one part of the house
• Move things you use often to lower-accessible shelves
• Use power tools, labor saving electric appliances and gadgets
• Communicate your needs to others; let people know how you are feeling and how they can help make something easier for you
• Divide time and responsibilities as needed among family members
• Turn to other sufferers for support in dealing with the unique challenges
• Keep a diary and post-it notes handle to write down thoughts. This can be helpful when experiencing brain-fog.
  

GARBAGE 

• When lining your garbage can with plastic bags - put extra in the bottom of the