Caring for a senior loved one is an amazing act of kindness and devotion. But it can also be difficult physically, emotionally, and financially. According to The Cleveland Clinic, more than 60% of caregivers experience symptoms of burnout. Being a caregiver to an older parent can feel complicated and overwhelming, which is why it’s important to give yourself grace and know you’re not alone in navigating these challenges.
Learn the causes and signs of burnout in caregivers, and helpful solutions for you and your family, from San Marino Retirement Community in Westminster, CO, a trusted senior care resource.
What Causes Caregiver Burnout?
It’s difficult to see someone you love go through health challenges, and it can feel hard to put the complexities of caregiver burnout into words. Take a close look at the specific emotions that may be causing you sadness, anxiety, or frustration. Caregivers often experience:
- Disappointment in Changes in Health: As a caregiver, you of course want your loved one’s health to improve. But if this doesn’t occur, or if they are struggling with progressive conditions like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, seeing this decline can be incredibly difficult.
- Role Changes: It can be challenging to separate your role as a caregiver from your role as a child, spouse, parent, or friend. Expectations and boundaries may evolve when you take on a caregiver role, and this can feel uncomfortable.
- Feelings of Self-Blame: You may feel as if you are not doing enough, or lack the time, money, or skills to provide the proper level of care.
- Lack of Self-Care and Awareness: In caring for your loved one, you may neglect showing the same care for yourself. It can be hard to take time for your own health or recognize when you need to take a step back.
Signs of Caregiver Burnout:
So how do you recognize when you need help? It’s important to be honest with yourself about how you are feeling. Don’t allow guilt to cloud your judgment — just because you are experiencing burnout, does not mean you have failed your loved one or care about them any less. Caregiver burnout symptoms are often similar to those of anxiety and depression, including:
- Negative feelings like hopelessness, guilt, or fear for the future
- Difficulty sleeping or fatigue
- Gaining or losing weight
- Self-isolation
- Disinterest in hobbies or pastimes you previously enjoyed
- Experiencing headaches, body pains, or gastrointestinal issues
- Feelings anger or frustration towards yourself or your loved one
How to Prevent Caregiver Burnout
Caregiver burnout may be common, but there are ways to feel better and ensure both you and your loved one are being cared for, including:
- Taking Care of Yourself: Remember that if you aren’t taking care of your own mental and physical well-being, caring for someone else will only feel more difficult. Set boundaries by defining what tasks you can and cannot do on your own. Remember to set aside regular time for yourself to relax and recharge.
- Having Someone To Talk To: Whether it be a friend, family member, therapist, or support group, simply talking about your feelings can greatly reduce the emotional burden you are experiencing and remind you you’re not alone.
- Asking For Help: Don’t be afraid to ask friends for a helping hand when you need it, whether it’s running errands, researching care solutions, or simply being an ear to listen.
The most important step in preventing caregiver burnout is considering long-term solutions. While talking to your parent or loved one about assisted living can feel like a big step, having a plan for the future can greatly relieve stress and anxiety and help your parent-child relationship as well. Don’t wait for a health emergency to begin the conversation. Discuss your concerns with your loved one and give your family time to explore options, determine the right level of care, and decide what type of support they require.
San Marino’s à la carte pricing model makes choosing the level of support easy, with residents only paying for the specific services they need and adjusting if their health evolves.
Support For You and Your Family at San Marino
If you’re looking to determine a long-term care plan for your loved one, San Marino Retirement Community is here to help with senior caregiver support. Our continuum of care and flexible pricing model makes planning and budgeting for long-term care simple and worry-free.
Have questions? Our friendly staff is always happy to offer expert insight on the right next steps for your family. Contact us today to learn more about San Marino’s support services and welcoming community.