Taking care of an elderly relative is rewarding work, but it can sometimes feel overwhelming. Caregivers contribute their time and energy to the health and safety of their loved ones every day, which can eventually lead to frustration, exhaustion, loss of concentration, and even health problems. Here’s how to reduce stress and prevent burnout when you provide elderly care. 

A Guide to Avoiding Burnout as a Caregiver

1. Take Care of Your Health

When you go above and beyond to prepare meals, administer medications, and attend to the well-being of your loved one, it is easy to forget about your own health. Caregivers can run the risk of falling ill when they don’t take care of themselves. Make sure to exercise regularly, drink plenty of water, eat healthily, and get at least seven hours of sleep every night.

2. Make Room for Breaks

As a caregiver, you have twice the responsibilities. This can result in a hectic schedule that leaves you drained. It is important to remember that you deserve to have fun on your own time. Permit yourself to take breaks—eat dinner with your partner, watch a movie with friends, or arrange a spa day. Have another family member or trusted friend fill in while you’re out.

3. Attend a Support Group

Many caregivers feel guilty about the symptoms that result from burnout, but it helps to remember that you are not alone. Joining a support group could help ease some emotional distress. You'll have the opportunity to share stories, swap elderly care tips, come up with solutions to common problems, and find comfort and support from a group of people who understand your experiences.

4. Use Your Resources

There is an abundance of online resources for caregivers. From transportation assistance to organizations focused on specific health conditions and diseases, these programs can help you tackle the challenges you’re facing while lightening the load on your shoulders. For example, the Family Caregiver Alliance® has an online tool that lists caregiver resources by state, and the Alzheimer’s Association and AARP offer a database of community programs and services. 

5. Ask for Help

When being a caregiver starts to take a toll on your body and mind, don’t hesitate to seek help. Family, friends, and neighbors are often happy to help out with errands or household tasks. For professional assistance, home health care agencies offer flexible scheduling opportunities. They can send skilled caregivers to tend to your loved one when you are not available.
 

If you need reliable elderly care for your parent, get in touch with This Is It Home Care in Florissant, MO. Serving the Greater St. Louis area for over a decade, this local in-home care agency works closely with families to create a custom program that meets the unique needs of your loved one. Their compassionate staff treats every client with kindness and respect, whether they need help with housekeeping, personal care, medications, disease management, or companionship. Visit them online to learn more about their services, and call (636) 724-2273 to discuss your caregiving needs with a friendly representative.