10 Realistic Ways To Manage Caregiver Stress
Being a caregiver to a senior loved one can be a deeply rewarding experience, but it can also take a heavy toll on your physical, mental, and emotional health. Current data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that 20% of family caregivers deal with caregiver burnout which takes a toll on their overall health.
Beyond simply affecting your life, caregiver burnout–also known as “caregiver stress syndrome”–can limit your ability to provide quality care to your loved one. If you’re in one of the stages of caregiver burnout and struggling with your own well-being, it’s difficult to be an attentive and patient caregiver. Our team at Visiting Angels of Chelsea has created this article to teach you how to avoid caregiver burnout.
Outstanding Caregivers Available Whenever Needed
“I was taking care of a neighbor and I had to go on vacation and I didn’t know what to do. A friend referred me to Visiting Angels. I called them and they were able to assist me right away. I was extremely impressed with their promptness and the quality of care they provided to my neighbor. I highly recommend Visiting Angels to anyone who is looking for care for their loved ones.”
How to Manage Stress as a Caregiver
Providing care for a senior loved one is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s important to create healthy habits and routines that boost your well-being and don’t add additional stress to your life. Here are ten things you can do to reduce caregiver burnout:
- Dial In Your DietThe stress of being a caregiver can weaken your body’s immune system and muscles. Counteract this by eating a complete diet filled with the macro and micronutrients you need to maintain good health and have the energy to provide care to your loved one.
- Add Some ExerciseExercise improves your physical health, energy levels, and sleep quality. Try to fit a half hour of exercise into your day. Low-impact activities like brisk walks and yoga are great options for many people who have busy caregiving schedules.
- Use Money Management ToolsThere are many digital budgeting tools that can help you manage your senior loved one’s finances and avoid stress from unseen bills and expenses. Take advantage of these services whenever possible!
- Accept Help When OfferedYou may be reluctant to accept help, but it’s a good idea to allow others to assist you with caring for your loved one. Whether this means having a family member take over your duties for a day, letting a neighbor cook a meal for you, or asking a trusted friend to drive your loved one to an appointment, a little help can go a long way.
- Talk with SomeoneCaregiver stress can create feelings of frustration and resentment at times. Find a trusted person or a professional mental health professional to vent these feelings to.
- Hire an In-Home CaregiverOur caregivers at Visiting Angels can supplement your care and help your loved one with things like bathing, meal prep, and transportation. With our respite care services, you can find a minute to relax and recharge.
- Take Breaks When NeededIf you need a moment to yourself, it’s important to take a break. Either have a loved one or a professional respite care provider take over your caregiving routine so that you can have peace of mind while you recuperate.
- Prioritize Your Mental HealthThe stress of being a caregiver can make you feel overwhelmed and upset. Try to take moments during your day to decompress and de-stress. This can be as simple as enjoying a good cup of tea, reading a book, or practicing breathing exercises.
- Become More SocialHaving to provide constant care for a loved one can be greatly isolating. Do your best to spend time with friends and family whenever possible to boost your social well-being and reduce feelings of isolation.
- Focus on Your SleepGetting inadequate sleep can reduce your quality of life and increase stress. Practice good sleep hygiene and set healthy bedtime habits to get enough sleep every night.
Visiting Angels Can Help Reduce In-Home Care Stress
As mentioned above, we can help reduce your stress and workload by providing in-home care services to your senior loved one. Whether you need us to give you a temporary break or provide regular care to your loved one, we are here to help! Learn more about our in-home care services today by scheduling a free in-home care consultation. All you need to do is call our office at (617) 409-9039 or fill out our online contact form.