How to Handle Caregiver Stress and Get Support

Blog Category: Uncategorized

Caregiver stress is something that can happen to the most resilient of people. As medical treatments advance and life expectancies increase, so does the number of people living with disabilities or chronic illnesses and the amount of caregiving offered by non-healthcare professionals. If you are a caregiver, it’s important to find the best support so you can provide effective and loving care without neglecting yourself in the process.

Often, caregivers focus on the health of their care recipient and this can lead to neglecting their own. Look out for these signs of caregiver stress:

  • Not getting enough sleep or sleeping too much
  • Feeling overwhelmed, sad, worried, depressed, or easily irritated
  • Prominent weight gain or loss
  • Social isolation and loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
  • Frequent headaches or body pain
  • Substance abuse, including prescribed medication
  • Financial difficulties and lack of choice in giving care

The physical and emotional challenges of caregiving can affect even the most resilient person. And if you aren’t taking care of yourself, you won’t be able to care for another person. Here are some important strategies and resources available to help you mitigate the stress.

Research and Set Realistic Goals

You’re probably wondering where to start and think you have to be perfect at all times. That’s not a realistic expectation for yourself, and it’ll burn you out before you can create a healthy, functioning process for you and your loved one. Below are some tips to prepare you for your role as caregiver:

  • Learn about your options in healthcare
  • Seek out other caregivers to ask for advice
  • Establish a routine and break down big tasks into smaller steps
  • Trust your instincts and know your limits
  • Encourage your care recipient’s independence

Accept Help

Even if you are the primary caregiver, you can’t do everything on your own. You’ll need other family members, friends, and professionals to help you from time to time, or you could experience caregiver burnout. Set aside time to talk with trusted people and give them a prepared list of duties you feel comfortable with them handling so you can attend to your needs.

Take Advantage of Community Services

You don’t need to become a caregiving professional who does it all. Most communities have resources and qualified staff that can further assist you within your budget, such as:

  • Caregiver services and adult daycare
  • Caregiver support for veterans
  • Community transportation services
  • Personal and health care services
  • Meal programs
  • Home health aides
  • Respite care
  • Skilled nursing and therapy

Take Care of You

Once you free up some time with the above tips, take care of yourself and other relationships you have:

  • Set aside time every week to stay connected with friends and family
  • Enjoy events and activities like going to the movies or a fancy dinner
  • Make doctor and salon appointments for yourself
  • Protect your overall health by exercising, taking classes, and journaling
  • Practice good hygiene

Wondering if your parent or spouse might be ready for assisted living but don’t know what the next step is? Check out our free ebook, Assisted Living and Older Adults!

At Life Enriching Communities (LEC), we’re committed to ensuring patrons feel well-equipped to plan their future and age how they wish. Explore more resources on senior living or contact us today to learn more about our legacy of services and programs that bring meaning and purpose to every stage of life.