In order to be a good caregiver, you must first take good care of yourself. Caregiving can be physically and emotionally exhausting, especially for family members who make it a point to care for a loved one. This is because it can also lead to additional pressures, such as financial strain, family conflict, and social withdrawal.
Family caregivers of any age are less likely to practice preventive healthcare and self-care. Studies have shown that many caregivers report problems attending to their own health and well-being while managing caregiving responsibilities.

This is worrisome. If you as the caregiver are in bad shape, it becomes all the more difficult to attend to your loved one.

What is Caregiver Burnout?

Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion. It is often accompanied by a change in attitude, from caring to unconcerned. Burnout can occur from setting unrealistic expectations or even placing too much demand on yourself. When caregivers try to do more than they are able, physically or financially, which happens more often than not, the result is burnout.

Stressed caregivers may experience fatigue, anxiety and depression. Some ways to prevent burnout include:

• Setting limits for what you can do.
• Taking time for yourself and your own needs.
• Eating a well-balanced diet and remember to drink plenty of water every day.
• Exercising by taking short walks daily or at least a couple of times out of the week.
• Getting a good night’s sleep.
• Scheduling short rest periods between activities.
• Taking a few hours out for activities that you find enjoyable.
• Letting family members and friends help.
• Most importantly, keeping good communication with your loved one, you, your family and friends, and the health care team.

References:
https://www.caregiver.org/resource/taking-care-you-self-care-family-caregivers/
https://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/self-care-for-caregivers
https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/life-balance/info-2021/15-minute-self-care-ideas.html
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/self-care-for-the-caregiver-2018101715003
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9225-caregiver-burnout

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Lorraine Arkaifie, MSN, AGPCNP-BC

Founder & Director of Services at Adult Alternative Home Care

After completing nursing school in 2009, she worked as a Registered Nurse with the elderly in nursing homes, hospitals and in their homes. She went on to complete advance nurse training with a focus in Geriatrics. As she gained more clinical experience, she was encouraged to pursue her dreams of establishing a home care organization that will provide excellent services to members of her community. With over ten years clinical knowledge, she has perfected the skills to establish rapport and support of the frail and elderly we serve. She loves what she does and will love to help you or your loved ones get the care and support they need.

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