Understanding and Coping with Caregiver Burnout
If you’re caring for an aging loved one, it’s common to feel overwhelmed. It can be a lot of work helping with meals, managing medication, providing transportation and more, especially if you’re juggling these responsibilities with family, career or other roles. Some caregivers feel guilty asking for help but taking on your loved one’s needs alone can have some negative effects. Caregiver burnout can lead to fatigue, stress, unhealthy habits, and even a diminished level of care. Keep reading for signs of caregiver burnout to look out for, along with tips that can help make things easier for everyone.
Signs of Caregiver Burnout
Taking care of a loved one can be difficult, but if you’re stressed out, it can affect your physical and mental health and the care you’re providing. Keep an eye out for the following signs that it may be time to ask for help.
- Losing sleep
- Lack of energy
- Recurring headaches or stomach aches
- Loss of interest in socialization or activities
- Feeling sad or helpless
- Feeling anxious or irritable
Caregiving Tips
Taking care of yourself will help you be a better caregiver for your loved one. Make caregiving less stressful and more enjoyable with these tips.
- Ask for help. Don’t feel guilty asking for help—here are a few options that could help you and your loved one:
- Family or Friends: See if there’s another family member or friend who could help take on some of the responsibilities.
- In-Home Care: Look into hiring a home caregiver or a home health aide to help with meal preparation, dressing, grooming, medication monitoring, transportation and light housekeeping part-time.
- Assisted Living Community: Assisted living communities provide 24/7 assistance with daily activities and socialization opportunities.
- Life Plan Community: A life plan community or CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community) offers a full range of health services all in one place, along with various activities, maintenance-free living and peace of mind.
- Respite Care: Some communities even offer respite care as a short-term solution or to see if an assisted living community might be a good fit.
- Talk to someone: Reach out to a friend who has gone through a similar experience, or find a local support group for tips or even just to vent! Many life plan communities will be happy to talk about your situation and can offer some suggestions.
- Stress relief: Finding ways to relieve stress is vital for our mental wellness. You can try exercise, music, meditation, gratitude journaling—find whatever works for you.
- Self-care: Make sure to take time for yourself and take a break if you need it. If you are struggling with any of the above symptoms of caregiver burnout, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.
Contact us today to learn how we can help.