Caregiver Burnout

When a family member is diagnosed as chronically or terminally ill the whole family is in a crisis. Information may be given at the time of discharge regarding care but being overwhelmed blocks the learning process. Once you are home you may not know what to do for your loved one. Who do you turn to for questions about care?

• How do I turn my loved one in bed?

• How do I help them into the chair?

• What if they are too heavy and I can’t lift them?

• Will I hurt them if they are tiny and frail?

• What if they fall?

Constant worry about care adds to the feeling of being overwhelmed

Many people don’t have the resources to pay for private duty care. Medicare doesn’t pay for hourly care and only a limited number of visits for a diagnosis. Most insurance companies don’t always pay for private care either. Medical bills can mount up fast. Financial worries add to the constant care and concern for the future. These and many other factors cause “care giver burnout”. For some it comes quicker then others. The feelings of guilt for being unable to cope or give constant care add to emotional tension within yourself and among family members.

To handle caregiving be good to yourself emotionally

Here is a list of easy ways to do that;

• Learn to take breaks

• Share the task among family members

• Find a confidant who will let you vent

• Meditate

• Take a walk

• Pray

• Contact your local area agency on aging for assistance

It is important to recognize you are not the only one to feel this way. Care giver burnout is a very common occurrence in all areas of care giving.

Joan