Six Tips on How to Avoid Caregiver Burnout
Author: Home Helpers Home Care
Avoiding Caregiver Burnout to Help Protect the Caregiver and Provide Better Care for Your Loved One
Being a family Caregiver is one of the most rewarding jobs that someone can do. Caring for a loved one in need may instill a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment while strengthening the relationship with that family member. It can also bring peace of mind because the primary Caregiver controls the care that their loved one receives.
The Challenges of Being a Family Caregiver
However, being a family Caregiver also comes with challenges. According to the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) and the AARP’s Caregiving in the U.S. Report, the average age of a family Caregiver is just 49. Caregivers in this stage of life are more likely to be at the height of their professional careers in addition to taking care of a family of their own.
If not properly balanced, these responsibilities can wear down the family Caregiver and lead to caregiver burnout, a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion.
Caregiver burnout is very common. Those who experience it may feel tired, stressed, withdrawn, anxious, and depressed. It may also have long-term health impacts if the Caregiver doesn’t go to their annual checkups or ignores their health conditions due to their Caregiver responsibilities.
How to Avoid Caregiver Burnout
As with any health condition, prevention is key. Understanding the warning signs of caregiver burnout and managing the distress it can cause in healthy ways is essential so it doesn’t build up over time.
Here are six tips on how Caregivers can avoid burnout:
- TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF – As a Caregiver, it may be tempting to prioritize your loved one’s needs over your own. While this approach is admirable, it’s unrealistic and will eventually lead to burnout. Eating nutritious meals, staying physically active, going to the doctor regularly, and getting adequate sleep are just a few ways to stay healthy and provide the best care possible.
- ASK FOR AND ACCEPT HELP – One person may be unable to singlehandedly assume all the caregiving responsibilities, especially if they are trying to balance other commitments with work and family. If the workload gets overwhelming, it’s okay to ask for help. Know your limits and be honest about the situation.
- TAKE A BREAK – Even if it’s just an hour or two, taking time for yourself is not just a luxury but a necessity. Doing activities that you enjoy relieves stress and reenergizes you, making you better prepared to handle your Caregiving responsibilities. Each week, set aside time to socialize with friends or for hobbies such as reading a book, listening to music, or creating art.
- JOIN A SUPPORT GROUP FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS – There may be opportunities to join a local support group through your church, hospital, or other local organizations. Talking with other family Caregivers who are going through similar challenges will make you feel like you are not alone. Group members can provide one another with emotional support and practical advice.
- BECOME EDUCATED ABOUT YOUR LOVED ONES’ CONDITION– The more you know about your loved one’s condition, the more comfortable you may feel providing care. Be realistic about your loved one’s condition, especially if it’s a progressive disease like Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease. Acknowledge that there may come a time when they may require professional help such as in-home care, nursing services, or assisted living.
- UNDERSTAND YOUR FEELINGS AND SEEK HELP WHEN NEEDED – Feeling frustrated, anxious, or even angry about your responsibilities is not uncommon for Caregivers experiencing burnout. It doesn’t mean you’re a bad person or Caregiver. Regular self-reflection through meditation or journaling is a great way to express your emotions and check your mental health. If at any time you feel overwhelmed, need someone to talk to, or have thoughts about hurting yourself, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (U.S. only) at 988.
While these tips can help you manage the stress and avoid caregiver burnout, sometimes the best way to recharge and maintain balance is to take a step back and allow someone else to take on some of the Caregiving duties. That’s where in-home respite care can make a difference.
In-Home Respite Care: Support When You Need It Most
Caregiving for an aging or disabled loved one can be both rewarding and challenging. Home Helpers® Home Care is here to make life easier. For over 25 years, we have provided exceptional in-home care for seniors, veterans, new moms and families, and those with disabilities, illness, or recovering from injury or surgery.
Our team of compassionate professionals will help you restore balance in your life by providing the break you need to focus on yourself and help you avoid caregiver burnout. With flexible scheduling options, our respite care is designed to fit seamlessly into your routine, providing peace of mind and giving you the time you need to recharge so you can return to your Caregiving role feeling refreshed.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SERVICES, CONTACT US TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE IN-HOME CARE ASSESSMENT OR FIND AN AGENCY NEAR YOU.