By Angelina Portuense, Senior Care Provider Specialist
Many of us may find ourselves in the role of caregiver one day. While there are numerous rewards—caring for the person who once cared for you—there are also lots of challenges. Caregiving can take a physical, psychological and financial toll. If you add, work, children, and other responsibilities to the mix, you may be at risk for burnout. But with the right support and mindset, you can be an effective caregiver and manage the rest of your life too.
As a teenager I never thought I would be a caregiver. Looking back, I could not have imagined I would be strong enough, both physically and mentally, to care for another person, let alone the same person who cared for me—my mother. At 14 years old, my world was shattered. What started out as a simple knee surgery lead to my mother’s devastating decline. I was thrust into a role I am still in, only now I have full-time job and an energetic toddler. While there have been times I questioned my own sanity, I never doubted the value of being a caregiver.
And I learned some important lessons that helped sustain me all these years.
Know the Signs: What is burnout? Burnout typically refers to physical or emotional exhaustion due to prolonged stress or frustration. The typical signs of burnout are fatigue, irritability, sleeplessness, feelings of helplessness, and withdrawal from activities and social connections. Sometimes caregivers are so entrenched in their role, they are not aware of what is happening to their mind and body. Pay attention to those aches and pains or that short fuse about to blow. They may be signs you are piling too much onto your over-loaded plate.
Join a Support Group. Caregiving does not always provide immediate gratification and can be emotionally draining. It’s important to find a place where you can share your trials and tribulations and get some much needed perspective. Caregiver support groups offered through social service agencies, hospitals, employers, and even online, can provide a lifeline of support as well as a source of valuable information. Many groups offer additional resources for preventing burnout or have a specific focus such as dementia care.
Create time for yourself. You may find it difficult to get much needed down time which your mind and body truly need. Many caregiving tasks can be physically and emotionally demanding, so carving out time for yourself is essential. Whether it’s curling up to a book, grabbing coffee with a friend or binge watching your favorite show, taking breaks is essential. Some caregivers find that meditating can help minimize stress and caregiver fatigue.
Get Help. It takes a village to be an effective caregiver and avoid burnout. Who should you include in this village? There may be other family members, friends, neighbors or members of a faith community who can pitch in. Perhaps you should consider a paid caregiver to help with errands, light housekeeping, transportation or other tasks. Recognizing you can’t do it all and getting the right help can provide you with the respite you need. Getting a break and managing your own expectations is essential in maintaining your own health and wellbeing.
Many caregivers fall into their role when they least expect it, as I did. Even if you’re caught off guard, there are steps you can take to enhance your experience. The 14-year-old me could have benefited from this hard-earned advice. Fortunately you have a benefit provided by your employer that will help guide you through your own caregiving journey. Reach out to a Senior Care Advisor for information, strategies and assistance in locating resources to best match your needs. Getting the right support can help mitigate the stress and maximize the benefits of being a caregiver.
For support contact a Senior Care Advisor at Care.com. We are master’s-level social workers specializing in adult and senior care.
Call us today at (855) 781-1303 x3 or email questions to careplanning@care.com
