For more information about the author, click to view their website: www.granehospice.com
Caregiver Stress Awareness in Hospice Care
By: Joelle
Jean, FNP
Caring for a loved one who is
terminally ill and on hospice is emotionally and physically taxing. In 2015, an
estimated 39.8 million caregivers provided unpaid care to an adult with a
disability or illness. The estimated value of the service supplied by caregivers
is up to $470 billion since
2013.
Caregivers may deny help from
others, perhaps out of guilt or obligation. However, 1 out of 6 caregivers report not
being asked what they need to care for themselves. Caregivers can work up to
8.3 hours per day or 66 hours per week during
their loved ones’ last days of life. Often, this is in addition to working a
full-time job and caring for their own immediate family.
Caregivers are at risk for
depression, severe fatigue, or burnout, or even health issues such as
hypertension, stroke, obesity, or weight loss due to stress.
What is a caregiver?
A caregiver, also known as an
informal caregiver, is an unpaid individual or group of individuals who provide
care to a loved one. Caregivers can be a spouse, family members, partner,
friend, neighbor, or combination of these individuals.
A caregiver assists their
loved ones with activities of daily living which include:
Bathing
Dressing
Eating
Toileting
Shopping
Housekeeping
Transportation
Medical tasks such as giving medications, changing wound
dressings, and managing pain
A caregiver can also play a
significant role in coordinating care for their loved ones. Many are appointed
power of attorney or the primary decision maker for their loved ones, managing
finances, property, and most suitable medical care for the individual.
What causes caregiver stress or burnout?
There is no clear definition
of caregiver stress. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines stress as “a
physical, chemical, or emotional factor that causes bodily or mental tension
and may be a factor in disease causation.” Burnout can be a response to stress,
defined as extreme emotional exhaustion. According to stress.org,
stages of burnout are:
Enthusiasm
Stagnation
Frustration
Apathy or loss of interest
A caregiver with stress or
burnout exhibits signs of feeling overloaded, overwhelmed, emotionally drained,
tiredness, detachment from the person they are caring for, and a reduced sense
of accomplishment.
Who is most affected by caregiver stress?
Caregiver stress affects the
person or people directly caring for their loved one. Stress can also affect
caregivers in different ways. For example, one caregiver may find specific
tasks stressful or overwhelming while another caregiver may find the task
relaxing and rewarding.
What are the signs and symptoms of caregiver stress?
Often, caregivers are not
aware of their stress or feeling of burnout. Signs and symptoms of caregiver
stress can be subtle or obvious. It is important to identify caregiver stress
so it can be eased.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a stress response,
activating the fight or flight response
that happens chemically in the brain. Physically, anxiety can be described as:
Increased heart rate
Feelings of doom or hopelessness
Stomach pain and or spasms
Headache
Sweating
Heavy breathing
Feeling weak or tired
Worry
Fatigue
Caregivers suffering from
stress may not realize they are fatigued. Fatigue is the body’s response to
burnout and can be physical, emotional, or psychological.
Weight changes
Stress can cause weight
changes and affect eating patterns. Weight change can occur when dealing with
caregiver stress. Rapid weight gain or unexplained weight loss is a warning
sign of caregiver stress and should be addressed appropriately.
Irritability
Caregivers may become easily
annoyed or short-tempered with loved ones, family members, or friends. Feeling
irritable may be a warning sign of caregiver stress.
Feelings of being overwhelmed
Feeling overwhelmed or
anxious is normal. Caregivers may become overwhelmed with the amount of care
needed to provide to their loved ones. Trouble concentrating, changes in sleep
patterns, and changes in eating habits may occur.
Depression
Losing interest in activities
can be a sign of depression due to the demanding responsibilities of
caregiving. Signs of depression include:
Little interest or pleasure in doing things
Feeling down or hopeless
Change in sleep patterns
Fatigue and tiredness
Thoughts of death or suicide
Potential health risks as a result of caregiver stress
Chronic stress (or stress
lasting for more than six weeks) can have lasting health problems. Caregivers
exhibiting signs and symptoms of stress and burnout have a higher chance of
developing health risks.
High blood pressure
Caregivers can suffer from
high blood pressure due to the stress of caring for a loved one in hospice. If
caregivers have already been diagnosed with high blood pressure, stress can
make the disease worse. Uncontrolled high blood pressure puts caregivers at
higher risk for:
Stroke
Atherosclerosis or disease of the arteries
Heart attack
Organ damage
Weakened immune system
The immune system is in place
to protect the body from illness and disease. Stress can cause a weakened
immune system. With a weakened immune system, caregivers can become sick or
develop chronic illnesses such as:
Inflammation throughout the body
Increase in fat in the blood and body
Chronic pain
Frequent colds and infections
Short term memory loss
Studies have shown that a
symptom of chronic stress is the shrinking of the brain. Shrinking
of the brain causes short-term memory loss. Short term memory loss affects
learning, judgement, and memory process.
Headaches and body pains
Stress can cause headaches
and body pains. On a hormonal level, the increase of cortisol causes headaches
even at rest. The physical nature of caring for a loved one on hospice-
lifting, standing, walking, and rotating- can cause severe body pain or injury.
How to relieve or prevent caregiver stress and burnout
Self-care is imperative for caregivers caring
for their loved ones in hospice. Self-care means caring for yourself, so you
can improve your health to care for others.
Exercise regularly
Finding the time and the
energy to exercise might sound difficult. However, even carving out 30 minutes
a day has positive effects on your health. Exercising whether it is running,
walking, swimming, or doing yoga will lower blood pressure, increase energy,
and improve mood.
Asking and accepting help from others
Accepting help can be
difficult for some caregivers. It is important to ask and accept help so that
you are available for your loved one mentally and physically.
Under most insurances and
Medicare, respite care is available to relieve the burden of caregiver stress.
Respite care will give short term caregiver relief to those who are in need.
Eat and sleep well
Eating and sleeping well are
fundamental in protecting your physical and mental health. A well-balanced meal
of fruits, vegetables, and plant-based foods is important for physical and
mental well-being. Adding vitamins such as a multivitamin, vitamin D, or
vitamin B-12 can also help improve your mood and energy.
Having a good night’s sleep
has many health benefits. Feeling well-rested and energized will only benefit
you, as the caregiver, and your loved one. Improved memory, mood, and overall
well-being are all benefits of quality sleep.
Seek out support groups
Support groups add immense
value to caregivers who are caring for loved ones in hospice. Joining support
groups reassures caregivers that they aren’t alone. Support groups:
Allow you to talk about your feelings
Help you realize others are going through the same situation
Reduces stress and depression
Teaches coping skills and ways to divert stress
Maintain personal relationships
Maintaining personal
relationships is as important as joining support groups. Meeting up with
friends or family members allows you to relax. It also allows you to take time
for yourself and time away from your loved one.
Awareness of caregivers’ stress and burnout must be addressed and acknowledged for caregivers to feel supported and recognized for their challenging work. The hospice team and its services are a fundamental part of bringing this awareness to the forefront.
Transitioning into a new phase of life is never easy, especially for our beloved seniors who may feel overwhelmed by the changes that come with relocating or downsizing. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we understand that this isnt just a moveits a deeply emotional journey. We are here to provide more than just organizational support; we bring compassion, empathy, and patience to every step of the process. Our goal is to help seniors and their families navigate this transition with the utmost care, creating an experience rooted in respect and dignity.Understanding the Emotional Impact of a Senior MoveA move often involves more than just changing locationsits an emotional farewell to cherished memories and familiar comforts. For many seniors, downsizing or relocating to a new space signifies more than just leaving a home; it may mean parting with pieces of their identity or decades of memories. This reality can bring up strong emotions, from sadness and anxiety to a sense of loss. Recognizing and respecting these feelings is crucial to supporting a smooth, heartfelt transition.At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we believe in meeting seniors where they are emotionally. Our team takes the time to listen to their stories, learn about their memories, and understand what makes their home feel uniquely theirs. This approach allows us to preserve meaningful items, honor their past, and make sure their new space feels just as personal. When we engage with empathy and patience, we can help reduce the sense of loss and create a moving experience that honors both their memories and their future.Practical Tips for a Smooth, Compassionate TransitionFor families and caregivers, helping a loved one transition to a new living environment can feel overwhelming. Here are some practical steps we recommend to make the process as gentle and considerate as possible:Start with Open CommunicationEarly conversations about the move help everyone feel more comfortable. Discuss the moves purpose and outline the process with your loved one to ease any fears or misunderstandings. Its crucial to approach these discussions with openness and patience, allowing them to express concerns and preferences.Sort Sentimental Items with CareSeniors often attach significant emotional value to certain items. When sorting through belongings, give ample time for them to share memories associated with each item. Help them decide what to keep, donate, or gift to family members in a way that respects their history.Involve Them in Creating the New SpaceSeniors will feel more comfortable in their new home if they play an active role in its creation. Allowing them to decide on the layout or display special keepsakes in the new space fosters a sense of ownership and belonging, helping the new environment feel more like home.Balance Familiarity with the Necessities of DownsizingDownsizing may be a necessary part of the transition, but preserving familiarity can make the adjustment smoother. Retaining certain pieces of furniture, favorite decorations, or even their everyday items can make the new space feel connected to the life theyve known. A Call to Order Professional Organizers helps identify these essential items, preserving the essence of their previous home.Create Moments of Reflection and AcknowledgmentMoving is often a time for reflection, and we encourage families to take breaks throughout the packing process to acknowledge the memories associated with the space. Simple rituals, like walking through each room together or reminiscing over family photographs, provide closure and honor the home theyre leaving behind.When seniors need to move, its not just a logistical taskits a life transition that requires kindness, patience, and respect. A Call to Order Professional Organizers recognizes the emotional weight of this journey and stands ready to offer support, warmth, and a guiding hand. By blending practical organization with heartfelt care, we help seniors and their families create a new beginning that honors their past and embraces the next chapter with peace and dignity.For those facing the decision of relocating or downsizing with a senior loved one, know that you dont have to do it alone. Our team is here to provide professional assistance, backed by a compassionate approach that turns this transition into an experience filled with warmth and understanding. Because at A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we believe every transition should be made with care.
Snack Smarter: How SnackEver Supports Your Specific Dietary NeedsIn today's health-conscious world, adhering to specific dietary requirements is more common than ever. Whether you're following a vegan, gluten-free, keto-friendly, or sugar-conscious diet, finding suitable snacks that align with your nutritional goals can be challenging. SnackEver is dedicated to simplifying this process by offering a diverse range of snacks tailored to various dietary preferences.Understanding the Rise of Specialized DietsThe increasing prevalence of specialized diets stems from various factors, including health conditions, ethical beliefs, and lifestyle choices. For instance:Vegan and Vegetarian Diets: Many individuals choose plant-based diets for health benefits, environmental concerns, or animal welfare considerations.Gluten-Free Diets: Essential for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, this diet eliminates gluten-containing grains to prevent adverse health effects.Keto and Paleo Diets: These low-carbohydrate diets focus on high-fat and high-protein foods to promote weight loss and improve metabolic health.Sugar-Conscious Diets: Reducing sugar intake is crucial for managing diabetes, preventing weight gain, and maintaining overall health.The Challenge of Finding Suitable SnacksAdhering to a specific diet often means scrutinizing food labels and ingredients, which can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Many conventional snacks contain hidden ingredients that may not align with certain dietary restrictions, making it difficult for individuals to find convenient and compliant options.SnackEver: Your Partner in Healthy SnackingSnackEver addresses these challenges by curating a wide selection of snacks that cater to various dietary needs. Their commitment to promoting wellness is evident in their diverse product offerings and user-friendly website.Diverse Product CategoriesOur inventory is organized into clear categories, making it easy for customers to find snacks that fit their specific diets. Some of the categories include:Chips, Popcorn & Crunchy Snacks: For those craving something savory and crisp.Chewy Snacks: Ideal for a quick, satisfying bite.Cookies, Crackers & Baked Goods: Perfect for indulging in sweet treats without compromising dietary goals.Trail Mix, Granola & Nuts: Great for on-the-go energy boosts.Snack Bars: Including protein and energy bars for sustained nourishment.Diet-Specific SelectionsUnderstanding that each diet has unique requirements, SnackEver offers specialized sections for:Vegan: Snacks free from animal products.Vegetarian: Options that exclude meat but may include dairy or eggs.Gluten-Free: Products made without gluten-containing ingredients.Keto-Friendly: Low-carb, high-fat snacks suitable for ketogenic diets.Sugar-Conscious: Items with reduced or no added sugars.Paleo-Friendly: Snacks that align with Paleolithic dietary guidelines.Dairy-Free: Suitable for those avoiding dairy products.Organic: Products made with organically sourced ingredients.Kosher: Snacks that meet kosher dietary laws.SnackEver prioritizes quality by sourcing products from reputable brands and providing detailed ingredient information for each item. This transparency allows customers to make informed choices that align with their dietary needs and preferences. For those who enjoy variety and convenience, we offer subscription boxes tailored to individual dietary preferences. These boxes provide a curated selection of snacks delivered regularly, introducing customers to new products that align with their diets. Our mission extends beyond providing snacks; we are dedicated to promoting overall wellness and supporting our local Pittsburgh community. Learn more at www.Snackever.com.
As we age, taking medications often becomes a part of everyday life. Whether it's for managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or arthritis, these medications are necessary to keep us healthy. But for many seniors, the cost of prescriptions can be a major concern. With a fixed income, paying for medications can sometimes feel like a financial burden.One solution that has been helping seniors save money is something called Cost-Plus Pharmacy. Let us explain what Cost-Plus Pharmacies are, how they work, and how they can make a big difference in lowering medication costs for seniors.What is a Cost-Plus Pharmacy?A Cost-Plus Pharmacy is a type of pharmacy that operates a little differently from the typical drugstore you might be familiar with. In most pharmacies, the cost of medications is marked upsometimes by a lot. This markup helps the pharmacy make a profit, but it also means youre paying more for your prescriptions than the pharmacy actually paid for the drugs.On the other hand, a Cost-Plus Pharmacy sells medications at a price thats closer to what they paid for them, plus a small, reasonable markup. The idea is to be more transparent and fair about pricing. This can help lower the price you pay for your medications, which is great news for seniors, especially those who take multiple medications.How Does a Cost-Plus Pharmacy Work?To keep things simple, think of it this way: lets say a pharmacy buys a medication for $10. A traditional pharmacy might sell that same medication to you for $20, marking it up by $10 in order to make a profit. But in a Cost-Plus Pharmacy, instead of doubling the price, the pharmacy may only add a small amountmaybe $2 or $3.So, instead of paying $20 for that medication, youd only pay $12 or $13. That small difference can make a big impact when youre taking multiple medications each month.One of the best things about Cost-Plus Pharmacies is that theyre open about their pricing. They usually show customers exactly how much they paid for each medication and how much they are adding as a markup. This transparency helps you understand exactly what youre paying for, making it easier to see that you're getting a fair deal.Why Is This Important for Seniors?Many seniors take several medications to manage chronic health conditions. The cost of these medications can quickly add up, and its not always easy to find affordable options. For those on a fixed income, like many seniors, paying for medications can become a financial struggle.For example, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the average senior spends about $1,200 per year on prescription drugs. That number can be even higher for those who take multiple medications regularly.Medicare Part D can help with some of these costs, but it doesnt cover everything. Plus, there are gaps in coverage, like the "donut hole," where seniors must pay full price for their medications after reaching a certain spending limit. This leaves many seniors paying high out-of-pocket costs for their prescriptions.Cost-Plus Pharmacies, such as Blueberry Pharmacy, aims to fix this problem. By offering lower prices on medications, these pharmacies can help seniors save money, making it easier to afford the medications they need without breaking the bank.How Can Cost-Plus Pharmacies Save Seniors Money?There are several ways that Cost-Plus Pharmacies help seniors save on their medications.1. Lower Prescription PricesThe biggest advantage of a Cost-Plus Pharmacy is that medications are sold at a lower price than what youd find at a traditional pharmacy. Rather than charging extra fees or high markups, these pharmacies focus on offering a fair price. For example, a medication that may cost $50 at a typical pharmacy could be priced at $35 or less at a Cost-Plus Pharmacy. Thats a savings of $15 on just one medication! If you need several medications, these savings can really add up over time.2. No Hidden FeesAt many regular pharmacies, you might find that your prescription comes with extra chargesdelivery fees, processing fees, or other hidden costs. These fees can make your final bill higher than you expected. Cost-Plus Pharmacies are often more transparent about their pricing. Theyll give you an exact breakdown of the cost, so you know what you're paying for. This way, you avoid any unpleasant surprises when its time to check out.3. Affordable Generic MedicationsGeneric medications are often much cheaper than brand-name drugs, but not all pharmacies carry affordable generics. Many Cost-Plus Pharmacies focus on offering a wide range of generic medications at lower prices. For seniors, choosing generic drugs is one of the easiest ways to save money without sacrificing quality. Cost-Plus Pharmacies make it easier to access these more affordable options.4. Special Programs for SeniorsSome Cost-Plus Pharmacies offer special programs to help seniors save even more money. For example, they may have senior discount programs or loyalty cards that give you even deeper discounts. Some pharmacies also offer free home delivery, which can be a huge help for seniors who may have trouble going to the pharmacy in person.5. Fewer Prescription ErrorsPrescription mistakes can be costlynot just in terms of money, but also in terms of health. If a pharmacy gives you the wrong medication or makes an error on your prescription, you may need to go back to correct it, which can add more time and money to the process. Because Cost-Plus Pharmacies tend to offer more personalized service and fewer customers, they often have fewer mistakes and are able to fill prescriptions more accurately. This can save you both time and money in the long run.As the cost of prescription medications continues to rise, finding ways to save money on those medications is more important than ever. For seniors, a Cost-Plus Pharmacy such as Blueberry Pharmacy can be a great option to lower prescription costs without sacrificing quality or service.By offering lower, more transparent pricing, Cost-Plus Pharmacies are helping seniors save money on the medications they need. Whether youre looking for a more affordable pharmacy in your area or you want to try an online option, these pharmacies can make a real difference in your healthcare expenses.If youre a senior or care for one, its worth looking into a Cost-Plus Pharmacy such as Blueberry Pharmacy. With a little research or by contacting us directly, you could be saving money on your prescriptions every month, making it easier to stay healthy without stressing about the cost. Reach out to us today!