Caregivers Take Care
By Cassie
Caregiver stress often occurs when a family member is taking care of a chronically ill parent, spouse or sibling. If you are feeling frustrated, alone or just overwhelmed you may be suffering from caregiver stress. As an Internal Care Manager at CareGuide@Home, I know I receive several calls or referrals a day for or from people that are suffering from caregiver stress. Caregiver burnout can occur if stressors are not alleviated and the caregiver is so overcome both physically and emotionally that they are unable to function. There are several ways a caregiver can attempt to alleviate their stress so that caregiver burnout does not occur.
As a caregiver it is very important to recognize and accept your own limitations. If you are feeling overwhelmed, ask for assistance from others or, if finances allow, hire an outside caregiver to provide respite care for you. Rely on friends or family to assist you when you need to get out for some fun time. Set a weekly schedule with them for time-outs from your care giving schedule. Outside caregivers can provide you with temporary relief from the duties of care giving, freeing you up to do things for yourself for a few hours a week. There is no shame in taking a break.
It is also extremely important to take care of your own physical and mental health. Caregivers tend to forgo their own needs when they are full-time caregivers which can lead to both emotional and physical illness over time. Try to exercise, eat healthy and get plenty of rest. People often perceive putting themselves before others as selfish but this is not the case. It is selfish not to care for yourself, as you are no good to anyone else when you are unable to function.
It is okay to seek out Caregiver Support groups in your area or private therapy for yourself (in-person or online). Your primary care physician can recommend a private therapist if needed. There is a wealth of information on caregiver support.
Your local Area Agency on Aging may be able to help you with caregiver resources. To find the closest agency in your community, along with other resources for older adults and their caregivers call 1-800-677-1116 to speak to an Eldercare Locator information specialist. For further information please see this article from AARP: Caring for the Caregiver.
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