While caregiving can be profoundly rewarding, it is, first and foremost, a responsibility — one that often exacts a significant emotional and physical toll. If you’ve been caregiving for any length of time, you likely have already experienced stress, fatigue, and possibly even burnout.
Our team has witnessed caregiver stress and burnout up close and personal, which is why we created this blog post and we encourage you to share it with the caregivers in your circle. In our experience, practicing any combination or — better yet! — all of the following strategies can help manage the personal challenges that come from caregiving.
Put the self back in self-care.
As a caregiver, it’s easy to put your own needs last. In fact, sometimes it’s impossible not to. Since neglecting self-care is one of the fastest routes to caregiver burnout, it’s important to prioritize self-care. Even just a short break spent doing something you love — whether getting outside, reading a book, or catching up with a friend, can make a significant difference in your mental and emotional health. Improve your caregiving by caring for yourself.
Embrace the fact that you can’t do it all.
It might sound obvious but you cannot do it all. You are not a robot. Caregivers who have perfectionist tendencies can really feel the pressure and inadvertently establish unrealistic expectations. Make prioritizing and delegating a part of your caregiving process. Asking for help when you need it is smart, strong, and serves both you and the person you’re caring for.
Lean into social outlets, both in-person and online.
Caregiving can be lonely and isolation is a common challenge for caregivers. Unfortunately, feelings of isolation are also a source of stress. However possible, stay connected with friends, family, or reach out to caregiver support groups. Sometimes sharing your experiences with others who understand can offer a great deal of comfort and practical advice.
Make time for mindfulness.
We know. The idea of making time for anything else when you’re a caregiver can sound impossible. But, by incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your daily routine, you can minimize the negative effects of stress and improve your overall well-being. Try deep breathing exercises, yoga, or mindfulness meditation to root yourself in the present when you feel overwhelmed. A few minutes a day can make a difference.
Commit to consistent breaks.
Taking regular breaks from caregiving duties is essential for maintaining your mental and physical health. Professional respite care services can provide temporary relief by giving you a much-needed break while ensuring your loved one continues to receive care. Whether it’s a few hours or a weekend away, taking time for yourself can help prevent burnout.
Prioritize what you can control; ignore the rest.
You already know this: caregiving can involve situations and realities that are beyond your control, which can lead to feelings of frustration and helplessness. Combat this by focusing on what you can control, like the way you respond and how you provide care. It’s hard, but accepting that you can’t change everything is a great stress management tool.
Keep learning.
By learning all the details about your loved one’s condition and knowing how to access available resources, you will undoubtedly feel better equipped to handle challenges. There are plenty of educational resources, such as workshops, online courses, and books, to learn more about caregiving strategies and support options.
You can start by checking out our recent blog post, “Embrace a Positive Approach to Caregiving with Innovative Tools and Products that Make Your Efforts Easier”
Reach out to professionals.
There are times when all the self-care in the world is no match for the power of professional help. Take your feelings and emotions seriously. At the first sign of unmanageable anxiety, depression or overwhelm, seek out a therapist, specifically a counselor who specializes in caregiver stress.
Practice gratitude.
Though it might sound simplistic, gratitude can shift your mindset and give your emotional well-being a boost. Even just focusing on what worked in your day, whether it’s a small success in your caregiving duties or a moment of connection with your loved one, can remind you of the amazing job you’re doing. That reminder can be enough to push through trying times.
Develop a support plan.
No doubt you’ve heard that it takes a village to raise a child. Caregiving for the elderly is really no different. We advise caregivers to develop a long-term support plan that identifies backup caregivers, organizes financial and legal documents, and explores long-term care options.
Experience Exceptional Care: Explore Our Assisted Living Facilities in Southern New Hampshire
For more than 40 years, As Life Goes On has been dedicated to providing expert assisted living and elder care services to communities across southern New Hampshire. If you’re seeking long-term, professional support, we encourage you to explore the benefits of partnering with our compassionate team at any of our six convenient locations.
Our services include boutique-style assisted living as well as respite care through our Caregiver Relief Program (CRP). Caregivers also have the option to join our membership club, offering maximum flexibility for your needs, even on short notice.
With locations in Derry, Dover, Windham, and Rochester, our facilities are easily accessible. We invite you to request a tour and experience firsthand our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our residents. Let us help you and your loved ones live better, every day.
