The Dangers and Risks of Family Caregiver Burnout

Caregiver burnout is a common health concern for family caregivers and indicates the need for respite care.

If you are a family caregiver suffering from burnout, you’re not alone. 45% of family caregivers report ongoing stress amongst a wide range of other symptoms, such as depression and fatigue.

No matter how much compassion and devotion you have for your loved one, family caregivers are human and have their limits.

However, it’s important to be aware of the consequences of caregiver burnout and the risks it poses to you and your loved one.

In this blog we’ll look at what family caregiver burnout is, the risks and how to handle it moving forward:

What is Family Caregiver Burnout?

Caregiver burnout is the state of emotional, mental and physical exhaustion.

Many people experience burnout in jobs, from being overworked and due to a lack of support.

Family caregivers may also feel guilt for focusing on themselves rather than vulnerable loved ones, which can exacerbate the issue.

Common Symptoms of Caregiver Burnout:

• Ongoing stress
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
• Withdrawal from family and friends
• Feeling frustrated and short-tempered.
• A feeling of helplessness
• Changes in weight and appetite.
• Sleeping problems.
• Health concerns.
• Over dependence on alcohol and medication.
• A sense of feeling you’re at breaking point.
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What Are the Dangers of Caregiver Burnout?

Physical Health Consequences

The consequences of caregiver burnout on your physical health can be severe.

Reports show that when you’re overworked, severely stressed and struggling to relax, your health is likely to decline. This is especially true for older caregivers and spouses who provide ongoing care for more than a year.

Sadly, dementia or Alzheimer’s caregivers also suffer dramatically, which is no surprise given the emotional toll of dealing with such a heartbreaking illness.

The Family Caregiver Alliance reports :

• 17% of caregivers report their health has generally declined as a result of caregiving.
• Health declines dramatically over time.
• Those caring for a spouse are most likely to report declining health.

Research Has Shown That Burnout Increases the Risk Of:

• Cardiovascular disease
• BMI increase
• Stroke and sudden cardiac death.
• Diabetes type II
• Male infertility
• Sleep disorders
• Musculoskeletal disorders

The study was provided by the American Psychological Association.

Mental Health Consequences

Mental health awareness is growing, but still, many people brush it aside - especially those from older generations. But in truth, mental health is just as important as physical health and should never be overlooked.

Caregivers suffering from mental health issues are also likely to report a decline in their physical health.

Depression

40% to 70% of family caregivers have “clinically significant symptoms of depression”. Many of these caregivers qualify as major depressions.

Depression is a serious illness. It causes a significant drop in quality of life, risk of suicide and can have a negative impact on your ability to complete tasks.

Without the ability to rest and refresh the mind and body, the risk of depression is significantly increased.

Anxiety

Constant pressure and fear can also lead to an increase in anxiety and for many family caregivers, trigger it on a daily basis.

This may inhibit your ability to perform tasks and make day-to-day life painful and difficult.

Stress

Stress is a symptom of burnout, but it is also a consequence of burnout. 4 in 10 family caregivers report their role as moderately stressful.

Consequences on Your Ability to Provide Care:

Burnout also puts the level of care at risk, with the family caregiver struggling to focus, function to optimal standards and be attentive.

Mistakes

When you’re low on energy and motivation, mistakes happen. From forgetting doctor’s visits to failing to clear hallways, a drop in caregiving standards presents inherent dangers.

There should be no blame placed on caregivers suffering from burnout, but it is something to be aware of.

Tasks Are Overwhelming

Similarly, you may find tasks that were once routine have become too much to handle. This can lead to a drop in standards or simply a snowballing effect on your mental health.

Damage to Your Relationships

Family caregiver burnout can affect all relationships - from the patient to your family and partner.

Firstly, if you begin to resent or fear looking after your loved one then it may be time to consider outside help. For example, with respite care, you can spend more quality time with your loved one, rather than just tedious chores.

Meanwhile, anyone who is burnout from caregiving is likely to see their personal relationships suffer. Whether it’s the kids, friends or romantic relationships, you deserve to share your energy to more than just your caregiving recipient.

What Causes Caregiver Burnout?

Overworked

The simplest answer is that you’re overworked. Without a break to rest your mind and body, you can become mentally and physically fatigued.

Taking on Too Much

Similarly, no amount of devotion or love can resolve a situation where a family caregiver has too much to handle. This can lead to fatigue and self-criticism.

Role Confusion

You may feel confused as a caregiver - especially if you’re a spouse, child or sibling. You may feel you’ve lost your normal relationship.

Unrealistic Expectations

Family caregivers are usually untrained and juggle their day jobs and other responsibilities.

This can cause burnout symptoms to arise as you feel disappointed in the lack of positive results and seemingly never-ending caregiving demands.

How to Prevent or Resolve Family Caregiver Burnout?

As you can see, family caregiver burnout is not to be taken lightly. However, it can be managed through some actionable steps.

Respite Care

As a senior home care service, we provide respite care.

Respite care is where a professional caregiver steps in, allowing you to take time off for a break or reduced schedule.

Respite care is proven to decrease the demands of family caregivers dramatically. Some people will use respite care to enjoy a much-deserved vacation, while others may take a month off, to refresh.

However, one of the most common uses of respite care is to reduce the demands throughout the week.

For example, a professional caregiver can provide a customized plan where they: arrive on Friday mornings, taking care of chores, cooking and bathing, allowing you to start the weekend calmly.

Other Ideas:

• Take some time off with respite care support.
• Know your limits and take breaks when needed.
• Reach out for help and outside assistance.
• Talk to friends and family and see if they can provide additional help.
• Keep goals realistic.
• Set aside time for yourself - even if just an hour or two, to give your mind and body a break.
• Talk to a professional - such as a therapist or social worker.
• Read resources, such as those provided by ourselves or The Family Caregiver Alliance to help educate yourself on the act of caregiving.
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Contact Us to Arrange Respite Care Services in Tampa, FL

If you’re suffering caregiver burnout, we can help. Whether you need professional helping hands or assistance so you can take a break, contact Visiting Angels today to arrange a referral of a professional caregiver to provide Respite Care in Tampa, FL.

Whether you're ready to get started or would like to learn more, we'll be happy to have a conversation with you or your loved one.

You can call us at 813-909-2550 today.