Taking care of a senior loved one can be stressful, especially if his or her health begins to decrease. Your loved one will look to you for assistance, even when you don’t feel up to the challenge. Take a look at some of the common causes of caregiver burnout and what you can do to prevent them.
1. Demands of Constant Care
Taking on too much with no help can cause caregiver burnout at a fast rate. Ask others for help, and utilize outside resources that are available to your loved one to cut down on your workload and allow more time for resting, recharging, and regrouping.
2. Lack of Social Interaction
Family caregivers generally spend more time caring for their loved ones than doing enjoyable activities such as attending social events with friends. If you continue down this path, you may eventually isolate yourself from other people, which could have a negative impact on your emotional wellbeing. To prevent isolation, spend time with friends, attend social functions, and participate in social activities you enjoyed prior to becoming a caregiver.
3. Sleep Deprivation
Without sleep, your mind and body will be exhausted. Sleep deprivation can cause stress and irritability and lead to high anxiety levels and depression. The mood changes you experience could cause you to lash out at others, including your loved one. To prevent this issue from causing caregiver burnout, get plenty of rest. Ask others to help more, or hire a La Mesa, CA, home caregiver to help your loved one during the night while you rest.
4. Poor Physical Health
Being consumed with your loved one’s physical needs could cause you to push your needs to the side, which could lead to burnout. Make sure you continue to exercise on a regular basis and follow a healthy diet. You also need to visit the doctor for regular checkups and screenings. Poor physical health could land you in the hospital, unable to care for your loved one or yourself.
5. Uncertainty
Caring for a loved one with a chronic condition can be stressful for family caregivers. You may be constantly addressing concerns about your loved one’s future, wondering if he or she will get better or if his or her health will continue to decrease. This type of uncertainty can take a toll on mental, physical, and emotional health. To prevent burnout, learn more about your loved one’s condition, accept what is going on, and refrain from setting high expectations.
6. No Time Off
Taking breaks, regardless of how long or short those breaks may be, is necessary for family caregivers. Failing to take time off could lead to burnout. Schedule regular days off, as well as extended time off to spend with your spouse and children or to take a much-needed vacation. Enlist the help of other family members to watch your loved one while you are away. You can also hire a professional respite caregiver to guarantee you have regular time off from your caregiving duties.
7. Lack of Support
It is extremely important to have a mentor or friend to talk to because it allows you to vent about issues without feeling guilty. This person can offer advice and help you see things more clearly. You may also want to consider joining a caregiver support group. Having a support system could prevent burnout, enhance your mood, and make the caregiving process easier.
If you are feeling overwhelmed due to your caregiving duties and need respite, reach out to Coast Care Partners, a leading provider of home care La Mesa, CA, families can trust. Our dedicated professional caregivers can assist seniors with bathing, exercise, meal prep, and a wide array of other important daily tasks. Call 619-354-2544 today to speak with one of our friendly representatives.
