Know the Signs of Caregiver Burden and How to Overcome It

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A woman gazes out the window while holding a cup of coffee, pondering whether or not she may be displaying the signs of caregiver burden.

Watch for these signs of caregiver burden and take steps if you think you may be experiencing it.

Looking after an older loved one is an act of love and devotion. However, it can also feel like a nonstop marathon. The emotional highs of shared laughter and smiles can quickly be overshadowed by the physical and mental exhaustion that comes with constant caregiving. This challenging journey can leave you feeling isolated, overwhelmed, and stressed, which are all telltale signs of caregiver burden.

Understanding Caregiver Burden

Caregiver burden includes the physical, financial, and emotional toll that caregiving can take. Emotionally, the continuous worry and stress about your loved one’s well-being can result in anxiety and depression. Physically, caregiving tasks such as lifting, bathing, and moving the senior can cause significant fatigue and strain. Financially, the expense of medical supplies, home modifications, and potentially reduced work hours may cause financial stress and uncertainty.

Social isolation is another key aspect of caregiver burden. The demands of caregiving can dramatically decrease your time for social activities and connections, triggering feelings of isolation and loneliness. This scarcity of personal time can also mean giving up hobbies and other activities that previously brought joy and relaxation.

Steps to Ease Caregiver Burden

Recognizing the signs of caregiver burden is the first step towards managing it. Here are a few practical steps you can take to bring you peace:

  • Implement Respite Care: Respite care services can offer regular, temporary relief, allowing you to take a break and recharge. CareWorks Health Services is happy to offer respite care services that allow you to take the time away you need while knowing your family member is thriving in the care of an experienced professional.
  • Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family and friends. Even small tasks can make a huge difference. It is also helpful to look into a caregiver support group, either online or in person, for emotional support and guidance from others in similar situations.
  • Take Care of Your Wellbeing: Make sure you are scheduling routine check-ups and talking with a mental health professional as well if needed, to make certain all of your health needs are fully met. Regular physical exercise and a healthy diet should also be a top priority to ensure you have the energy and strength needed in your caregiving role.
  • Use Resources and Tools: Utilize tools like the Caregiver Burden Scale to determine places where you may need help. CareWorks Health Services also offers numerous educational resources to help guide and support you as you look after older loved ones.

At CareWorks Health Services, we offer a full range of customized aging care services that provide a healthy life balance for family caregivers while enhancing the lives of older adults. A number of the ways we can help include:

  • Light housekeeping and meal prep
  • Transportation and accompaniment to appointments and fun outings
  • Friendly companionship for engaging activities and conversations
  • Personal hygiene care and support
  • And a lot more

Call us any time at (949) 859-4700 for more helpful suggestions and a home care partner you can count on when taking care of someone you love. We’re pleased to serve Huntington Beach, Mission Viejo, Seal Beach, and throughout Orange County.