The Impact of Caregiver Fatigue and How to Avoid It
If you’re a family caregiver in Chelmsford, when was the last time you felt truly rested? The constant juggling act of managing your loved one’s needs while tending to your own obligations is often downright exhausting and can quickly lead to caregiver fatigue.
What is Caregiver Fatigue?
Caregiver fatigue, also commonly referred to as caregiver burnout, takes place when the demands of the role begin to overwhelm the person in charge. It’s important to note that this condition goes beyond normal tiredness and can impair a caregiver’s everyday life.
Individuals with caregiver fatigue often experience several–or at worst, all–of the following symptoms:
- Exhaustion and lack of energy
- Physical pain, including headaches or backaches
- Overreacting to minor nuisances
- Neglecting your own needs
- Difficulty concentrating
- Social withdrawal and disinterest in activities you normally enjoy
- Feeling increasingly resentful of the person you’re caring for
- Unhealthy behaviors, such as abusing substances
Strategies for Preventing Caregiver Fatigue
While caring for your senior loved one will never be a stress-free situation, taking the following steps can help you find balance and avoid burnout.
Lean On Your Support Network
It’s impossible to handle the many responsibilities of caregiving all on your own. If your friends and family offer to pitch in, don’t be afraid to accept their help–whether by having them prepare a meal or run an errand–whatever help they’re offering, strongly consider taking it!
Practice Self Care
Be sure your baseline needs are being met by getting adequate sleep, eating nutritious foods, and exercising regularly. Additionally, it’s important to spend time with friends whenever possible. Even if it’s just a quick catch-up over coffee, socialization will go a long way in boosting your outlook. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish–your health directly impacts your ability to care for others.
Focus on What You Can Control
There’s no use in wishing things were different–you can’t magically cure your loved one’s health condition or add more hours to the day. Try not to stress over things you can’t control. Instead, work on how you react to problems that arise. Talking to a counselor or caregiver support group can help you work through challenges like these.
Access Resources in Chelmsford
In addition to getting help from people in your circle, support is available both locally and online.
- The Massachusetts Family Caregiver Support Program offers free resources, counseling, and training to unpaid caregivers over the age of 18.
- Chelmsford Senior Center provides an Adult Social Day program that gives family caregivers the opportunity to take a break from their duties while their loved one is carefully supervised.
- The Alzheimer’s Association’s Greater Massachusetts Chapter features online support groups, free podcasts, and many more helpful resources.
- Our website features articles to help guide you on your caregiving journey, including advice on:
Visiting Angels is Here for Family Caregivers
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and could use professional assistance to help care for your aging loved one, contact Visiting Angels Chelmsford. We’re proud to support family caregivers in Chelmsford and the surrounding communities through our flexible home care service plans. With respite care, you can ensure your loved one is being compassionately tended to so that you’re able to focus on your own health and well-being.
Get in touch now to learn more, or set up a free consultation by calling 978-244-0200.