Fatigue
Suggested Strategies for Energy Conservation

When considering ways to conserve energy, remember to prioritize, delegate, pace yourself, and plan high-energy activities at times of peak energy.

Activities of Daily Living

• Sit down to bathe and dry off. Wear a terry robe instead of drying off.



• Use a shower/bath organizer to decrease leaning and reaching.



• Install grab rails in the bathroom.



• Use extension handles on sponges and brushes.



• Use an elevated toilet seat.

Organize time to avoid rushing

• Lay out clothes and toiletries before dressing.



• Minimize leaning over to put on clothes and shoes.



• Bring your foot to your knee to apply socks and shoes. Fasten bra in front then turn to back.



• Modify the home environment to maximize efficient use of energy. Example: Place chairs to allow rest stops (e.g. along a long hallway).



• Wear comfortable clothes and low-heeled, slip on shoes. Wear button front shirts rather than pull-overs.

Housekeeping

• Schedule household tasks throughout the week.



• Do housework sitting down when possible. Use long-handled dusters, dust mops, etc. Use a wheeled cart or carpenter's apron to carry supplies.



• Delegate heavy housework, shopping, laundry, and child care when possible.



• Drag or slide objects rather than lifting. Use proper body mechanics. Use your leg muscles not your back when working.



• Sit when ironing and take rest periods.



• Stop working before becoming tired.

Shopping

• Organize list by aisle.



• Use a grocery cart for support.



• Shop at less-busy times.



• Request assistance in getting to the car.



• Purchase clothing that doesn't require ironing.

Meal Preparation

• Use convenience foods/easy-to-prepare foods.



• Use small appliances (they take less effort to use).



• Arrange the preparation environment for easy access to frequently used items.



• Prepare meals sitting down.



• Soak dishes instead of scrubbing and let dishes air dry.



• Prepare double portions and freeze half.

Child Care

• Plan activities to allow for sitting down (e.g., drawing, pictures, playing games, reading, computer games).



• Teach children to climb up on the lap or into the highchair instead of being lifted.



• Make a game of the household chores so that children will want to help.



• Delegate childcare when possible.

Workplace

• Plan workload to take advantage of peak energy times. Alternate physically demanding tasks with sedatory tasks.



• Arrange work environment for easy access to commonly used equipment and supplies.

Leisure

• Do activities with a companion.



• Select activities that match energy level.



• Balance activity and rest (don't get overtired).

Note. Based on information from Donovan, E. (1995, October 25). "Energy conservation." In Fatigue Initiative through Research and Education (FIRE^®) course. Educational program sponsored by Oncology Nursing Society and Ortho Biotech Inc., Phoenix, AZ.