Reducing Caregiver Stress

By Donna Raziano, M.D.

 

Assuming the role of a caregiver is a selfless act requiring commitment, patience and sacrifice. The stress of managing the lives of aging family members while maintaining jobs, raising children, and handling the day-to-day responsibilities of your own active life can cause physical illness, frustration, depression and overall burnout.

 

Caregivers have a tendency to feel guilty when focusing on themselves or enjoying their own lives and consequently center all their attention on the needs of their loved one. In most cases, family and friends are the first to recognize the emotional and/or physical changes in the caregiver. The caregiver is often the last to recognize that they need help.

 

Some key signs that the caregiver needs care include:

Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, anxiety, or fear

Mood swings

Becoming short tempered

Changes in eating and/or sleeping patterns

Weight loss or gain

Having a hard time making decisions

Withdrawing from social activities

Problems with relationships

Inability to rest or relax

 

Caregivers who ignore their own physical and emotional needs make-up the majority of unintentional elder neglect and abuse cases. To alleviate stress and burnout there are techniques to help caregivers replenish themselves physically, emotionally, and mentally.

Maintain good health

Schedule personal time regularly

Make time to be pampered when feeling overwhelmed

Remain socially connected by maintaining relationships with people and participating activities

Establish new relationships and bond with those who are experiencing similar circumstances

Join a caregiver support group or network

Consider speaking with a therapist

Seek respite care

 

Community-based organizations like Mercy LIFE offer many resources such as in-home medical care, respite care, adult day services and support programs to assist caregivers in providing care to their elderly loved ones.

 

Donna Raziano, M.D. is Chief Medical Officer of the Mercy LIFE (Living Independently for Elders) program, 1930 South Broad Street, Phila., PA 19147, www.mercyhealth.org/homehealth, 1.888.690.2551.

 

Category: Modern Medicine