Caregiver Stress: How to Avoid Burnout
At Mayberry Gardens, we know the enormous job that caregivers have. Day in and day out, your loved ones rely on you. It’s an incredibly important job that takes heart and commitment, but is often thankless – not to mention exhausting!
As a caregiver, it isn’t likely that you get regular vacations, so what can you do to relax, recharge and stay at your best for your loved one? We have a few ideas to support you.
- Let others help you. It’s clear that you know best what your family member needs, but the truth is, if you can find someone you trust, let them help. You don’t have to leave for hours at a time; you don’t even have to leave at all. But allowing a friend, family member or nursing assistant the opportunity to help you out for a short time can provide great stress relief. Take an hour to read a book, two hours to go shopping or get a haircut or manicures – anything that’s just for you and brings you joy.
- Look for more permanent resources. Many areas offer adult day services and assistance with activities of daily living. Lightening your load on a regular basis can be a tremendous help. Often caregivers feel guilty seeking outside help for their family member, but you’re actually doing him or her a service. By taking care of yourself first, you can offer more patience and energy to your loved one during your time together.
- Get regular checkups. As stated above, it’s essential that you care for yourself first. This includes seeking regular medical care to evaluate your blood pressure and any concerns you may have. Stress can take a toll on the body and it’s important to stay on top of it.
- Know when it’s time to research a higher level of care. If caregiving is placing too much physical and emotional stress on you, reach out to local facilities to find out what they have to offer. Here at Mayberry Gardens, we offer family style living – not an institutional setting. Resident receive round the clock care in a warm, caring setting. We find that seniors thrive in our small home-like environments and are actively engaged in our daily, individualized activities.
Come for a visit and see the difference for yourself! Contact us today to schedule a visit.