10 Ways to Avoid Caregiver Burnout

Around six out of 10 family caregivers report feeling stressed while caring for another person. Of that group, 36% feel high levels of stress. This stress often leads to caregiver burnout.

What is caregiver burnout? It’s a state where a caregiver is so mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausted that they just don’t have the energy left to care for themselves or others. Often, someone with caregiver burnout moves from being actively involved and happy to provide care, to now a disinterested and frustrated caregiver. How can home care services help?

 

Home Care Services in Glenolden PA: Caregiver Burnout

Home Care Services in Glenolden PA: Caregiver Burnout

 

How do you avoid caregiver burnout? These 10 tips can help.

1. Learn to Say No

The most important way to avoid caregiver burnout is to say no. You’re busy with your dad’s care, and your sister asks you to get her kids from school since you’re running errands anyway. Tell her no or say you will if she stays with your dad all day tomorrow.

2. Don’t Try to Do It All

You have limits. Listen to your body and stop trying to do it all. Take breaks and focus on must-do tasks instead of everything.

3. Eat a Healthy Diet

It’s easier to stop and get a pizza while you’re driving home. Unhealthy foods don’t provide your body with the nutrients it needs for mental and physical health. If you must get takeout, look for something healthier like a poke bowl or protein-rich salad.

4. Take Breaks During the Day

At least once a day, stop everything and go outside for a walk. Feel the sun, listen to the breeze, and stretch out. Bring your dad with you for some fresh air.

5. Rest When Needed

You’ve been on your feet all morning. Stop and take a rest break. Put on a show you enjoy and let your dad join you as you watch it for 30 minutes.

6. Engage in Favorite Hobbies

Do you have a favorite hobby? Take time every week to do it. If you love to paint, head outside and paint pictures of your dad’s flower gardens. Have him join you.

7. Get Enough Sleep

Aim for at least seven hours of sleep each night. If you can get eight, that’s even better. Do this by creating a nightly routine and don’t stray from it if possible.

8. Join a Support Group

Join a support group for family caregivers. Surround yourself with people who understand what you’re going through.

9. Talk to Others

Talk to others in the family. Ask for others to chip in and help out. If they won’t, it’s time to look for home care assistance.

10. Arrange Respite Care

Call a home care specialist and ask about respite care. It’s important to take care of yourself. Make sure you have the support of respite care by creating a comprehensive home care assistance plan.

 

If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Home Care Services in Glenolden, PA, and the surrounding area please contact the friendly staff at Suma Home Care. (484) 206-4544

Sources:

https://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/ppi/2021/05/caregiving-in-the-united-states-50-plus.doi.10.26419-2Fppi.00103.022.pdf

Ibrahim & Mariama Suma-Keita