There are approximately 50 million family caregivers in the U.S., most of which look after loved ones aged 65+. And although serving as an unpaid in-home eldercare provider is highly gratifying, adding those responsibilities to an already full plate can be a recipe for caregiver stress. Thankfully, donating one’s time and talents while staying refreshed is possible once you find positive ways to recharge and decompress. If you are currently serving as a family caregiver, here’s how to recognize the signs of caregiver stress and get the help you need.
Caregiver Stress Warning Signs
Regardless of their training and experience, most informal caregivers eventually reach a point when they feel overworked, overtired, and overstressed. Exhaustion, worry, inadequate resources, and strained relationships can be a caregiver’s constant companions.
The average caregiver is more likely to develop a chronic health condition, like elevated blood pressure, heart disease, or diabetes, than a non-caregiver. Assisting a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming for even the most “battle-tested” family caregivers.
Caregiver stress typically presents with these warning signs:
- Sleep deprivation
- Anxiety and depression
- Difficulty performing simple tasks
- Rapid weight gain or weight loss
- Postponing or completely ignoring medical appointments
- Substance abuse
- Not exercising
- Poor eating habits
- Lack of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Social isolation
Ignoring these symptoms won’t make them go away. If allowed to persist, caregiver stress will eventually affect the health and well-being of both you and your care recipient.
Self-Care Tips for Family Caregivers
Here’s how to enjoy a healthier, more fulfilling life while caring for family and friends:
Set realistic caregiving goals
Although it’s not easy to accept, no matter how hard you try your loved one’s condition will eventually worsen. Rather than allowing yourself to get overwhelmed, prioritize your daily tasks and focus on the most important ones— like getting Mom to eat everything on her dinner plate.
After all, you’re only human, and Rome wasn’t built in a day.
Start a caregiving journal
Another way to emotionally decompress is by keeping a daily caregiving journal. Use it to record both positive and negative experiences that you are going through — like the fact you were able to get Dad out of the house for some much-needed exercise. When you’re having a bad day, go back and relive the good moments and focus on how your efforts are making a difference.
Make healthier lifestyle choices
If you’re sick in bed (again) because you’re not taking care of yourself, start making some positive lifestyle changes. Eat a well-balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid unhealthy habits like smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol to excess. Get a complete physical every year, and don’t ignore your other medical appointments.
Don’t forget to reward yourself
Not everyone has what it takes to be a successful caregiver. Reward yourself for a job well done by doing something you enjoy every week. Use your scheduled downtime to learn a new hobby, go clothes shopping, or just spend a few hours curled up on the couch binge-watching your favorite TV shows. Whatever you decide to do, don’t feel guilty for taking a break from your caregiving duties.
Set aside some “me” time
Find time to participate in healthy stress-relieving activities like walking, swimming, cycling, or Yoga three to five times per week. Treat yourself at least once a month to a spa day or date with your significant other. Seek professional counseling if negative feelings like anxiety and depression persist.
Call in the calvary
Asking for help doesn’t make you a failure. Stay positive by seeking relief through community volunteers, family members, friends, or a meal delivery or senior transportation service. Another option you have is hiring a professional respite caregiver from a reputable home care provider.
Flexible In-Home Respite Care for Families in NW Boston
Finding a trustworthy home care provider isn’t always easy. At Assisting Hands Home Care, our professional in-home senior care services allow clients in the greater Boston, MA, area to remain safely and comfortably in their own homes. Our trained, dependable caregivers and personal assistants can help your family overcome its eldercare challenges while making your loved one’s home an even better place to be.
Our turnkey home care services include everything from companionship, meal preparation, medication reminders, and transportation to light housekeeping, laundry, and personal care assistance with bathing and dressing. From a few hours a day to around-the-clock care, our customized in-home care solutions have got your family covered. To learn more about Assisting Hands Home Care or schedule a free consultation for a senior in Northwest Boston, click here now.
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