Navigating Caregiver Guilt: Finding Support in Webster, TX

Caring for an aging loved one can be a rewarding yet taxing experience, especially as our own lives become busier and more complicated. It’s often too easy for caregivers to start feeling guilty as they spend time on their own needs, which can negatively affect their personal health and relationships. Visiting Angels of Webster provides local caregivers with the support they need through compassionate and caring senior home care services, including respite care. 

Recognizing Caregiver Guilt

Recognizing the signs of caregiver guilt is a critical first step in managing symptoms. Here are a few key indicators that you could be experiencing caregiver guilt and/or burnout: 

• Frequent headaches
• Feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, sad, lonely, anxious, or irritable
• Trouble sleeping 
• Neglecting personal care tasks, like showering 
• See the full list provided by the NIH National Institute on Aging (NIA)

Navigating the Guilt

If any of the above signs sound similar to what you’re experiencing, it’s time to take proactive steps to successfully navigate the guilt and regain a path towards total well-being. This can include things like: 

• Asking for help, even if it’s a small ask
• Practicing saying no
• Talking to your doctor or therapist
• Reaching out to your faith community 
• Prioritizing self-care such as proper sleep, nutrition, relaxation, and diet
• Seeking support from the larger caregiver community 
• Focusing on quality time with yourself
• Adjusting your expectations

Image source: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/caregiving/take-care-yourself-caregiver

Caregiving Resources

Caregiver guilt and burnout is common. So much so, that there are resources locally, and nationally, that are here to help. Take a look through the lists below. Have confidence in reaching out for help from as many as you need to. You’re certainly not alone.

National Resources for Caregivers

• Caregiver Corner from Eldercare
• The Veteran Affairs Caregiver Support Program, Program of General Caregiver Support Services, and Peer Support Mentoring Program
• The Family Caregiver Alliance

Local Resources for Caregivers

Once you start looking for caregiver resources, you’ll find quite a few. Here are a handful of the local resources Webster-area caregivers can lean on: 

• Harris County Area Agency on Aging
• The Houston Health Department Caregiver Support Network
• Texas Health and Human Services Caregiver Support and Resources
• Aging and Disability Resource Centers
• Take Time Texas
• University of Texas Medical Branch’s Caregiver Connection

Visiting Angels of Webster also offers our support to local caregivers. We’re happy to give fellow caregivers the personal time that everyone needs and deserves. Call us at 832-632-2273 for more information. 

Respite Care for Webster, TX Senior Caregivers 

Caregivers often rely on the compassion and care of those around them to find a reprieve. If you know someone who is a caregiver, take a moment to thank them for the service they so selflessly provide. Ask what you can do to help them, no matter how large or small the task. 

Visiting Angels of Webster caregivers understand the weight of caregiver guilt and offer local family caregivers much-needed respite care. Our respite care services allow caregivers the time and space they need to recharge their batteries, tend to their own needs, and return to their family members refreshed. Whether it’s for a few hours or a few days, Visiting Angels caregivers enjoy getting to know local seniors and caring for them as their caregivers take time for themselves. 

If you’d like to learn more about our senior home care services, including respite care, contact us to schedule a free consultation.