Caregiver Burnout: When You Know, What to Do & How to Ask For Help

Author

Collier Home Care, LLC.

Posted on

Apr 22, 2021

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

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If your'e burning the candle from both ends, there's no fire left for you.
We at Collier Home Care have seen many cases of caregiver burnout. We suggest you read the article below and give us a call if you think that you or someone close may be suffering from caregiver burnout. We provide some suggestions below on avoiding or controlling burnout and we are happy to consult with you and make suggestions without any commitment.
If someone were to ask you to care for a loved one, what would you say? Yes? No?
Initially, the idea of caring for someone you love may seem normal, helpful, and relatively easy. How hard could it be? But, heres the reality: over time, continuous care takes a toll.
Caregiver burnout, otherwise known as compassion fatigue, is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. Caregiver burnout becomes a major issue when caregivers dont take the time they need to fully recharge and care for themselves. Its common for caregivers to feel guilty spending time on themselves rather than with ill or elderly loved ones, but as they continue to put the needs of others before their own, their ability to care for themselves and the people they work with becomes affected.
Its also not uncommon for caregivers to work multiple jobs and offer care for different families. Its easy to see how with a full schedule and the needs of their own family, a caregivers self-care ultimately takes a backseat.
According to VITAS, common signs of caregiver burnout include:

Lack of energy
Overwhelming fatigue
Trouble sleeping
Changes in eating habits
Weight loss or weight gain
Feelings of hopelessness
Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
Neglecting your own physical & emotional needs
Feeling as though caregiving is controlling your life
Becoming impatient, irritable, or argumentative
Anxiety about the future
Depression or mood swings

Do any of these sound or feel familiar? If they do, here are five ways caregivers can avoid burnout:

Ask for help and take people up on it. Asking for help does not make you a bad caregiver. Let go of the idea that one person has to do it all. Were meant to rest, recharge our batteries, and enjoy a break from work at the end of the day. When people say they want to lend a hand, let them.
Delegate tasks to others. Whether its cooking dinner twice a week for you or following through and arriving on-time, let people know how they can show up for you.
Stay invested in your own well-being. Eating healthy, staying active, and getting enough sleep are the basic foundations of well-being. Theyre also the building blocks of your immune system, which is important so you can stay healthy and avoid getting sick.
Pamper yourself when you can. Caregiving is tough work. Make an opportunity to wind down at the end of the day with a long bath, or put a massage on your calendar. Take time for yourself by writing in a journal, praying, or meditating. Find what connects you back to your center and stay faithful to those practices.
Know when its time to call in the professionals. Oftentimes, home care agencies get called in when caregivers reach a breaking point, but with home care it doesnt have to be all or nothing. Were flexible. Depending on what you need, we offer between one and 24 hours of service, plus live-in care.

If someone you know is exhibiting signs of caregiver burnout, please share these ideas with them. If you know of someone who could use a hand (or if thats you), please contact Collier Home Care.
It continues to be our pleasure to care for you, your family, and your loved ones.
Please stay healthy and stay well!
Submitted and Written By: Collier Home Care - click here for more information

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Collier Home Care

Non-Medical 3372 Woods Edge Circle, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34134

Collier Home Care is a leading Nurse Registry dedicated to connecting clients with exceptional caregivers. Our mission is to provide world-class caregiver referral services that prioritize professionalism, personalization, and compassion.As a trusted liaison between clients and independent caregivers, we understand the significance of finding the right match. We carefully select caregivers who excel in their roles and are passionate about making a positive impact on others' lives.Our services include personal care, companion care, and skilled nursing, ensuring that clients receive the support they need to live comfortably and independently at home. Whether you're seeking care for yourself or a loved one, we're here to help you find the perfect caregiver for your unique needs.Collier Home Care is a local, family-owned business deeply committed to serving our community. We strive to make the caregiver-referral process as easy and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on what matters most your loved one's well-being.Contact us today at 239-920-3902 to learn more about our caregiver referral services and how we can assist you or your loved one. Experience the Collier Home Care difference and discover caregivers who truly make a difference.

Collier Home Care

Home Health 3372 Woods Edge Circle, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34134

Collier Home Care is a leading Nurse Registry dedicated to connecting clients with exceptional caregivers. Our mission is to provide world-class caregiver referral services that prioritize professionalism, personalization, and compassion.As a trusted liaison between clients and independent caregivers, we understand the significance of finding the right match. We carefully select caregivers who excel in their roles and are passionate about making a positive impact on others' lives.Our services include personal care, companion care, and skilled nursing, ensuring that clients receive the support they need to live comfortably and independently at home. Whether you're seeking care for yourself or a loved one, we're here to help you find the perfect caregiver for your unique needs.Collier Home Care is a local, family-owned business deeply committed to serving our community. We strive to make the caregiver-referral process as easy and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on what matters most your loved one's well-being.Contact us today at 239-920-3902 to learn more about our caregiver referral services and how we can assist you or your loved one. Experience the Collier Home Care difference and discover caregivers who truly make a difference.