The Entrenched Caregiver

July 02, 2010

We all know that improvements in medical science are extending our lifespan far longer than anyone ever believed possible. However, the inevitable result of this increased longevity is that families will need to allocate increased amounts of time and resources to care for our aging loved ones during times of illness or incapacity. This expectation can place a great deal of stress on family caregivers, thus, it is important to take care of yourself while caring for a loved one to avoid burnout. Here are some important considerations for caregivers to factor into their personal plan of care while caring for family members.

Family Dynamics: Coordinating care for an older adult brings out the best and worse in family members. Make an effort to understand the level of commitment and limitations (both real and imagined) of other family members. Recognize that you cannot change others who may not share your compassion or family commitment, but work as best you can with the resources you have.

Take Time for Yourself: Burnout is a very real occurrence for many caregivers, so it is important to pace yourself and take breaks whenever you can. When that feeling of being homebound overwhelms you, do something that you find relaxing; take a bath, read, listen to music, paint or exercise. When possible, find people to relieve you (family members, friends, volunteers, homecare services) so that you can get out of the house and have a change of environment.

Keep in Touch With People: Avoid secluding yourself from the rest of the world because of your responsibility to care for someone. Every day make a concerted effort to call a friend, relative or support person just to talk and remain engaged with the outside world. It sounds small, but it will make a substantial difference in your daily outlook.

Start a Journal: Maintaining a journal can be very cathartic. Write in your journal every day your feelings, concerns and issues within the family. Let it all “hang-out!” It is your journal and no one needs to ever see it.

Develop a Daily Routine: This will help you deal with the stress and the feeling of being overwhelmed. It will also make it easier for someone to step in to help.

Get Involved With a Support Group: Don’t try and tough it out alone. Friends, church or organizational support groups can help reinforce that you are not alone in this endeavor and make a big difference in your mental outlook.

By taking some or all of these steps, you will find family caregiving to be less burdensome and far more personally rewarding.