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What is caregiver burnout and why should you be worried about experiencing it?

Studies have shown that one-in-three caregivers provided more than 20 hours of care per week and over half had cared for or assisted in the care of a loved one for 24 months or more. This is so concerning because the people providing this care are doing so on top work, family and everyday life responsibilities. What often starts as assisting with making some doctors appointments can quickly become providing meals, checking if medications are being taken, transportation assistance and responding to emergency situations.

The scary thing about caregiver burnout is you’re often already in too deep before you’ve even realized your experiencing it.

In this blog we are going to go over strategies to regain and maintain more balance to hopefully alleviate some of the caregiver burnout you may be feeling.

How is caregiving defined?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), caregiving affects the quality of life for millions of individuals. It includes providing assistance with one or more of the basic daily tasks, such as help with bathing, dressing, managing a chronic condition, shopping, preparing meals or providing transportation.

Middle-aged and older adults also provide a substantial portion of care in the U.S. according to the CDC. And they may be muti-tasking as many also are caring for children, spouses and parents at the same time.

Impact of providing care for a loved one

Many caregivers will tell you it’s fulfilling to care for their loved one. The experience may improve both the individual and the caregiver’s life. However, caregiving can also impact the carer’s ability to work, engage socially or maintain their own physical and mental health.

Caregiver burnout: causes and symptoms

According to the Cleveland Clinic, caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion.

The following are often common causes:

1. The needs and requirements of care are too much– Some caregiving needs exceed what can be provided by one person at home. However, as family members often feel an obligation or guilt, they may continue to struggle.
2. The health of the caregiver is compromised– It’s well known that caregivers often neglect their own health. This can lead to serious illnesses or worsening chronic conditions of their own.
3. There is little relief or respite available – It is not always easy to find someone to take your place. Often, caregivers don’t feel that anyone can care as much as they do but it can also be difficult to find needed respite.
4. The caregiver doesn’t feel supported – Caregiving can be a lonely experience. It’s not unusual for the individual and the caregiver to become somewhat isolated in their home, especially when the caregiver doesn’t have support.
5. The caregiver is stressed with other responsibilities – As mentioned above, caregivers are often taking care of children or others at the same time they are caring for a parent. Life’s stresses begin to take a toll.

Typical symptoms of caregiver burnout

Fatigue

Exhaustion is a common feeling among caregivers. There often is little time for themselves to take a break or get needed rest.

Anxiety and depression

While caregiving can be fulfilling, people often begin to experience anxiety and depression. The days can be long and the nights longer. Without sleep, healthy nutrition or social interaction, mental health will likely suffer.

Guilt

Caregivers often feel guilty. Whether it’s because they become frustrated while providing care or wanting a night off for themselves, guilty feelings often accumulate.

Increased stress

Caregiving may be only one source of stress. The caregiver likely has other responsibilities and tasks that also must be completed.

Withdrawal and isolation

It can be easier to stay at home than try to go out on excursions. A sense of hopelessness can develop, leading to isolation and withdrawal from others.

Caregiver burnout: next steps to take

Find someone you can talk to

You need a trusted friend or family member to talk to and be able to vent or share your feelings without a sense of judgment.

Set realistic expectations

It’s essential to be honest with yourself about what you can accomplish. You are only one person and human.

Find respite care

Whether it’s professional care from an agency or assisted living community or a break provided by family or friends, you must find ways to decompress.

Join a support group

Sometimes talking to others who know exactly where you are and what you are feeling is a lifeline.

Take care of your own health

Even if you feel you don’t have the time, you must prioritize your own health or you won’t be able to care for another.

Source: Cleveland Clinic

How an assisted living community can help

Assisted living communities often offer respite care to families for a few days or even weeks. This allows the caregiver time to attend an important event, take a vacation or just catch up with other responsibilities.

You might want to consider an assisted living community for a long-term solution as well. Your loved one will have an accessible residence, the care of a compassionate and trained staff, healthy dining, activities, entertainment and social interaction. What families often appreciate the most is that they can then return to their roles of son, daughter or spouse and truly enjoy the time spent together.