The Toll of Caregiver Burnout

With 1 in 3 Americans taking care of an older loved one or individual with significant health care needs, caregiver burnout is increasingly common. Taking care of a loved one can be extremely rewarding, but it can be emotionally and physically draining as well, especially for those also caring for younger family members or working full- or part-time.

A collection of signs and symptoms indicate stress and burnout, and all should be taken seriously:

• Feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried
• Feeling tired often
• Getting too much sleep or not enough sleep
• Gaining or losing weight
• Becoming easily irritated or angry
• Losing interest in activities
• Feeling sad
• Having frequent headaches, bodily pain or other physical problems
• Abusing alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications

Acknowledging one’s own needs for a break or time away isn’t selfish, nor does it indicate lack of care.

Respite care can help. Professional and compassionate respite providers can take on some of the duties and responsibilities of caring for an older adult or someone with significant needs. Whether it’s for a week to take a well-deserved vacation or once or twice a week to help with daily living activities, in-home respite care allows primary caregivers to take time for themselves and recharge.

Respite care provides:

• Peace of mind knowing that your loved one is spending time with a compassionate, reliable caregiver.

• A chance to relax and enjoy social activities such as going out to dinner or catching a movie with friends and family.

• Time to run errands and do things to take care of yourself, like going to the gym or getting a haircut.

In-home respite care can be good for your loved one, too. In-home caregivers help with a range of tasks and activities that family members may typically take care of, including bathing, meal preparation, transportation and companionship.  Respite care also gives your loved one an opportunity to interact and spend time with others in a safe environment. By staying with a caregiver at home, your loved one can remain in comfortable, familiar surroundings while getting the care and mental stimulation he or she needs.

Home Care Book understands the anxiety and reluctance caregivers may feel about relying on respite care. Apprehension about leaving a loved one with someone else or guilt about not being with a loved one to take care of all their needs are understandable feelings. We work with you and your loved one to create a respite plan everyone feels comfortable with, and our agency is licensed, insured and bonded to provide senior home care in Texas. Our reliable, compassionate, and experienced caregivers possess extensive home care experience and are required to go through criminal, employment and reference checks. They also must complete Home Care Book’s rigorous training program.

To see how we can help, get started on a free home care quote or call us at (214) 377-0711 today.