Posted on April 23, 2018

3 Ways to Avoid Caregiver Burnout

Caregivers are heroes

If you’re a caregiver for a hospice patient, Alzheimer’s patient, or anyone with long-term needs, you are a true hero. You sacrifice in ways many others do not understand. Yes, it’s rewarding, but it can also be very taxing emotionally as well as physically. It’s important to watch for signs of burnout.

Caregivers can experience burnout

Caregiver burnout is a serious issue. Burnout decreases your ability to care for your loved one or patient. And there are ways to avoid it.

Signs of caregiver burnout

Ask yourself these questions to find out if you may be experiencing caregiver burnout.

Do you find yourself withdrawing from your friends and family?
Have you begun to lose interest in activities you used to enjoy?
Do you feel blue, irritable, or hopeless?
Have you begun losing or gaining weight?
Have your sleep patterns changed?
Are you sick more often than usual?
Have you had thoughts of hurting yourself?
Have you had thoughts of hurting your patient or loved one?

These are all signs that you may be experiencing burnout. If you are, it’s common that you also feel there’s nothing you can do about it. But that’s simply not true.

There are many ways to avoid caregiver burnout. We think they boil down to three things you can take care of. You are passionate about caring for your loved one. But here are three other things you need to take care of to avoid caregiver burnout.

1. Take care of yourself

Set aside time for yourself. Let’s face it. Caregiving can be stressful for many reasons. It’s important to have time to decompress. You need to refuel. And if you don’t make time for yourself, it might not happen.
Stay healthy. It may be difficult, but it’s definitely worth it. You need to be at your best to do what you do. If your body is worn out, your mind will follow. So do your best to eat right, exercise, and get enough sleep.
Use respite care services. They can give you a temporary break. The help can range from a few hours of in-home care to a short stay in a nursing home or assisted-living facility.
Go easy on yourself. Set reasonable expectations for yourself. Don’t expect that you can do everything on your own. You may need help, and that’s ok.

2. Take care of your attitude

Stay honest about negative feelings. Be honest with yourself about how you’re feeling. Accept negative emotions, and don’t beat yourself up about them. It’s natural to have frustrations. In fact, frustration handled correctly can be a wonderful catalyst for problem-solving.
Stay positive whenever possible. It’s important to let frustration or even anger have its place, but you can’t stay there. Find the good in every day. Use humor to help you keep things in perspective. Find something that makes you laugh every day.
Educate yourself. Caregiving can feel overwhelming at times. Avoid this feeling by staying educated about your loved one’s condition. Just knowing more can greatly improve your ability to stay positive.

3. Take care of your support system.

Talk to a friend. Sometimes just talking through frustrations with someone helps. Especially if they are someone you trust. Your friends know you well and can help you sort through your feelings. Or you may just simply need to vent on occasion. Friends are great for that.
Find a support group. You have struggles that most people simply can’t relate to. But others in your situation know what you’re going through. A support group of caregivers can understand you like no one else can. And that can be the most refreshing thing you experience. If you aren’t’ meeting regularly with other caregivers, find a group in your area.
Talk to a counselor or clergy member. A therapist, social worker, or minister may be the perfect support for you at times. These people are trained to help and give advice on how to handle all kinds of emotional issues.

You find great satisfaction in caring for your loved one or patient. But in order to care for them well, you must take care of yourself. Caregivers often burn the candle at both ends. But taking care of your health, your attitude and your support system are three important ways to keep you from burning out!

If you or a loved one need hospice or palliative care, or if you’d like more information on caregiver support, please call us today. At Crown Hospice in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, we have years of experience caring for patients with life-limiting illnesses. Do not hesitate to call (866) 703-4801 (toll-free) or (573) 335-4800 at any time to talk with one of our caring, professional staff. We are here for you.

Share This Post

Don’t Wait To Secure Hospice Care

GET STARTED TODAY

If your loved one is eligible for hospice care, don’t wait to find a program. Hospice care will provide your loved one with comfort, care, and support.

(573) 335-4800

3 Ways to Avoid Caregiver Burnout

3. Take care of your support system.

Technology for Aging in Place: Smart Home Solutions

Social Connections and Aging: The Power of Community for Seniors

Promoting Brain Health Through Cognitive Activities for Seniors

Don’t Wait To Secure Hospice Care

Cape Girardeau

Poplar Bluff

Donate