Caregiver burnout can be a serious issue for both the elderly person being cared for and the caregiver themselves. It's important to take steps to prevent burnout from happening in order to maintain the health and well-being of everyone involved.
According to statistics, 65% of older people with long-term care needs rely completely on family and friends for assistance. Another 30% use paid services to complement family care. This means that a majority of people needing long-term care are reliant on someone else to provide it, which can lead to caregiver burnout in home elderly care if not handled correctly.
Here are three tips for preventing caregiver burnout:
1. Take a Break
It can be difficult to take time for yourself when you're responsible for caring for someone else, but it's essential for your own health and well-being. Make sure to schedule regular breaks throughout the day, even if it's just stepping away from the situation for five minutes to take a deep breath.
If possible, try to take a full day off every week to recharge. This can be difficult if you're the only caregiver, but see if there are any family or friends who can help out so you can get some time to yourself.
If all else fails, consider hiring a professional caregiver for a few hours a week to give you a break. Make Google searches for home care in your area, such as "home care phoenix az" to find some extra help.
2. Talk About Your Feelings
It's important to have a support system when you're caring for someone else. Talk to your friends and family about how you're feeling – both the good and the bad. They can offer moral support and can also help out with giving you a break from time to time.
If you don't feel comfortable talking to your family and friends, consider joining a support group for caregivers. This can be a great way to connect with people who understand what you're going through. Online forums are also a great option for finding support.
3. Set Realistic Expectations
It's important to remember that you can't do it all on your own. Don't set unrealistic goals for yourself and try to relax a bit. It's okay to ask for help when you need it.
Likewise, be understanding if the elderly person you're caring for is having a bad day. They may not be able to do as much as they usually can and that's okay.
Try to create a schedule that works for both of you and be adaptable when things don't go according to plan.
Hire a Professional Caregiver
If you're having trouble managing in home elderly care on your own, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Professional caregivers can provide the extra help and support you need to prevent caregiver burnout.
