How Fatigue And Frustration Can Impact Caregiving
Many families find satisfaction in caregiving for an elderly loved one, whether a parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle or family friend. The experience of being a senior caregiver can often strengthen the bond between an adult child and a parent. In many ways, it's a rewarding opportunity to give back but, it can also be highly stressful. If left unchecked that stress can cause mental, physical, or emotional fatigue, also known as caregiver burnout.
Did you know depression affects 20 to 40% of all caregivers?
In order to help you, or a loved one in your life who is a caregiver, combat caregiver burnout, Comfort Keepers Home Care serving Leighton, PA, and the surrounding area has created a list of the most commonly reported symptoms as well as several coping strategies to try. We want to encourage caregivers to care for themselves because they deserve it!
Contact Us Today! (484) 629-8500
How Can I Tell If I’m Experiencing Caregiver Burnout?
Two of the most common signs of caregiver burnout are fatigue and irritability. You may also start to disconnected or begin having trouble finding meaning in your role as a senior caregiver for your loved one.
Other symptoms that could indicate you are experiencing burnout could include:
Difficulty concentrating
Changes in sleep patterns
Emotional and physical exhaustion
It is incredibly important that you are aware of any changes in your mood as well as any other signs that you are overstressed because they are very likely to worsen over time.
What Can I Try To Cope With Feeling Burnt Out?
There are so many healthy coping mechanisms to choose from that it can seem overwhelming at first. Finding the right solution that helps combat feelings of burnout can take time but, it is worth it to keep trying. You may find that learning more about your loved one’s condition helps you remain empathetic and provide better care. Or perhaps you find that picking up a new hobby helps you put the day’s worries behind you.
Here are a few more ideas to help you get started:
Ask family/friends for help: Enlist the help of family members when you are feeling down or burnt out. This will give you time to relax and help your family better understand your needs as well as that of your senior loved one. Be sure to express gratitude, even a few dollars, a gift card, or an evening at a restaurant go a long way towards showing that you appreciate the help.
Find a healthy way to vent your frustrations: For some, this can be a friend who understands the demands placed on a senior caregiver. Others may find it works better for them to write down their frustrations in a private diary or word document.
Find ways to exercise: Although it can be difficult to set aside time to exercise, it is one thing that doctors can agree is good for everyone. Finding the time to work up a sweat and get your heartbeat up can go a long way in helping alleviate your stress.
What If I Need A Little Extra Time For Myself?
If you decide you need a little more help caring for your loved one, Comfort Keepers Home Care serving Leighton, PA, and the surrounding area is here to help! We offer a variety of services, including respite care for overworked or burnout family members, with flexible care plans that can be adjusted as the amount of care needed increases or decreases.
If you’d like to learn more about why you should choose Comfort Keepers Home Care, our full list of care services, or if you’d like more information on burnout and how to avoid it as a senior caregiver, please contact us online anytime or call us at (484) 629-8500. Our agents are available round the clock to answer your questions and schedule your free in home consultation.
