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.
Welcome to A Call to Order Professional Organizer, where we understand the emotional complexities of senior transitions and specialize in providing compassionate support and efficient move management services. In this heartfelt guide, we'll explore the importance of efficient moves in creating happy lives for seniors as they embark on new chapters in their journey. From meticulous planning to thoughtful execution, our team is dedicated to ensuring that every move is a positive and empowering experience for our senior clients.The Emotional Impact of Senior MovesSenior moves are often accompanied by a whirlwind of emotions, from excitement and anticipation to anxiety and uncertainty. Leaving behind familiar surroundings and cherished memories can stir up feelings of sadness and loss, while the prospect of starting anew in an unfamiliar environment may evoke apprehension and fear. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we recognize the emotional toll that senior moves can take and are committed to providing compassionate support to our clients every step of the way.Tips for Efficient and Happy Senior MovesStart Early and Plan Thoroughly: The key to a successful senior move is meticulous planning and preparation. Start early by creating a detailed moving timeline and checklist, outlining all the tasks that need to be completed before moving day. Break down the process into manageable steps, such as decluttering, packing, and coordinating logistics, and allocate sufficient time for each task to avoid last-minute stress and overwhelm.Declutter with Sensitivity: Downsizing and decluttering are essential aspects of senior moves but can also be emotionally challenging. Approach this process with sensitivity and empathy, acknowledging the sentimental attachment that seniors may have to their belongings. Encourage seniors to keep items that hold special meaning or bring them joy while gently guiding them to let go of unnecessary clutter that may weigh them down in their new home.Personalize the New Home: Help seniors feel at home in their new environment by personalizing their living space from the start. Arrange familiar belongings and cherished mementos in prominent places, creating a sense of continuity and comfort amidst the change. Consider incorporating elements of their previous home's dcor into the new space to evoke a sense of familiarity and belonging.Provide Emotional Support: Moving can be an emotionally charged experience, and seniors may need extra support and reassurance during this time of transition. Be present for your loved ones, offering a listening ear, a shoulder to lean on, and words of encouragement. Validate their feelings and concerns, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of saying goodbye to the past while embracing the opportunities that lie ahead.Celebrate New Beginnings: Moving to a new home is a milestone worth celebrating, and seniors should be encouraged to embrace the excitement and possibilities of their fresh start. Plan a housewarming gathering or intimate celebration to mark the occasion and welcome seniors into their new community with open arms. Focus on the positive aspects of the move, highlighting the opportunities for growth, adventure, and new experiences that lie ahead.Follow Up with Care and Support: The transition to a new home doesn't end on moving dayit's an ongoing process that requires continued care and support. Check in with seniors regularly after the move, offering assistance with unpacking, organizing, and settling into their new environment. Show them that they are not alone in this journey and that you are there to support them every step of the way.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand that efficient moves are the foundation for happy lives for seniors. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing personalized move management services that prioritize the emotional well-being of our clients. Let us be your partner in creating a seamless and positive moving experience, ensuring that seniors can embrace their new beginnings with joy, confidence, and peace of mind. With our expertise and heartfelt support, we'll help seniors transition to their new homes with grace and happiness, setting the stage for a fulfilling and rewarding chapter ahead.
Let's celebrate one of nature's most delightful offerings: the pistachio. These little green gems are not just a treat for the taste buds; they're also packed with health benefits. Let's crack open the world of pistachios and other nuts, exploring their health benefits and some delicious pistachio-based snacks.The Wonder of PistachiosA Nutty HistoryPistachios have been a cherished snack for millennia. Originating from the Middle East, they have been a symbol of wellness and robust health since ancient times. Today, they are enjoyed worldwide, known for their unique flavor and vibrant green hue.Health Benefits of Pistachios1. Heart Health: Pistachios are great for your heart. They're loaded with antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber, which help in reducing cholesterol levels and lowering the risk of heart disease.2. Weight Management: Despite being energy-dense, pistachios have a high protein content and fiber, which can help in feeling full and preventing overeating.3. Blood Sugar Control: Their low glycemic index makes pistachios a smart snack choice for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.4. Eye Health: Pistachios contain lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that are crucial for eye health.We've put together a selection of pistachio-based snacks. From roasted and salted pistachios to pistachio-infused treats, there's something for every nut lover. These snacks are perfect for a healthy, satisfying nibble.Uncanny | Pistachio Salted | 1.3oz CanWonderful | No Shell Pistachios Roasted & Salted 0.75ozconsciouSnack Obleas Pistachio Amaranth Wafers (1.05oz)B'cuz | Granola Bites Cherry Pistachio Gluten-Free Snack (1oz)A Nut for Every NeedWhile pistachios are in the spotlight today, let's not forget about the wide variety of nuts available, each with its own set of health benefits. Almonds are great for vitamin E, walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and cashews are packed with iron and magnesium. Incorporating a mix of nuts into your diet can provide a broad spectrum of nutrients and health benefits.Visit our website - we are more than snacks, we promote wellness. Perfect for vegans, diabetics, celiac, keto, and more...
Spotify This company has created a virtual music library that you can personalize to your specifications; 70s rock n roll, anyone? You have the ability to save songs to your library, make playlists and listen to Spotifys premade playlists. Spotify also offers a variety of comedy stations, audiobooks and a specially-made playlist of music you may be interested in. There three different ways to listen: smartphone app, computer desktop program and a web player. The first two provide icons that take you immediately to your music library, while the web player can be accessed through an internet search engine.Some benefits of the app include:It is free to download, but it will play ads. You can remove the ads for a monthly fee.It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.It has millions of different songs from which to choose.Old Time Radio Player Do you miss classic radio programs and theatric radio voices?This app can take you back in time. There are over 14,000 episodes from classic shows, such as Hopalong Cassidy, Dick Tracy and Sherlock Holmes.Some benefits of the app include:It is compatible with Android devicesIt is free.It is easy to use.Audible If you like to read but find your eyes straining, Audible may be a solution. Through this app, you can choose a book from genres, such as history or romance, and a narrator will read the novel to you. This app is the hip, new successor to the books on cassette tapes. Your first book is free, but you will have to pay a monthly subscription fee.Some benefits of the app include:It is free to download, but you will have to pay for subsequent books.It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.You can cancel your subscription and keep the books you previously downloaded.Waze Pronounced ways, this handy GPS app is a must for drivers. Its goal is to help drivers avoid traffic jams and quickly get them where they need to be. Waze does this by tracking your car and asking drivers to submit accidents, road hazards and more, so other drivers can get the heads-up. The navigation map shows events in real time, so drivers can see the most current traffic reports.Some benefits of the app include:It is free to download.It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.It includes turn-by-turn navigation.Shazam This app takes all the guess work out of remembering song titles or lyrics. If you hear a song on a TV commercial or on the radio, Shazam can listen and search for the song in its database. The app allows you to explore new and old artists.Some benefits of the app include:It is free to download.It is compatible with Android devices, Apple products and Windows smartphones.Provides the option to purchase and download songs.Honey Honey actually isnt an app for your smartphone or tablet. It downloads onto your computer as an extension and appears as a small icon near your search bar. If you shop online, you need Honey because it applies every promo code on the internet to your online shopping cart, which saves you money. When you sign up, youll also become a member of their awards program called Honey Gold where you can earn a $10 gift card or make a donation to a charity.Some benefits of the app include:Its free to download on your computer.It works on Mac and Windows computers.You can delete your account and the extension if needed.Duolingo If learning a new language is your goal, look to Duolingo. You can learn languages such as, Welsh, Spanish and Greek. Each lesson asks you to speak, listen, translate and answer multiple choice questions. The way the lessons are set up, its like playing a game.Some benefits of the app include:Its free but you can pay $6.99 per month to remove ads and add more perks.It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.It uses images and audio to help you learn.Venmo Need to pay someone back but dont have cash or time to run to the bank? Use Venmo. You can connect your bank account or debit card with Venmo and instantly recieve and send money to anyone with a Venmo account. You can also pay for goods and services online if they accept Venmo as a payment.Some benefits of the app include:The app is free.Its free to send and receive money or use money to purchase something online. Their standard 3 percent fee applies to credit cards.Venmo uses encryption to help protect your account details.WordScapes WordScapes is a cross between a text twist and a crossword puzzle. It challenges your vocabulary as you twist the letters to find words that will fit correctly in the crossword puzzle. It also features beautiful landscapes in the background to keep you zen and focused.Some benefits of the app include:The app is free but does include ads.It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.Theres over 5,000 puzzles.WordBrain If a word scramble and Bejeweled were blended, it would be this app. You can keep your mind sharp as you find hidden words and collapse the puzzles. It boasts 580 levels, so youll never run out of fun challenges.Some benefits of the app include:It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.It is free.The rules are easy to learn.Draw Something Its a fun game you can play with family and friends wherever they are. Players take turns drawing the given word and the other player must guess the word using only the picture and letters provided. If you enjoy Pictionary or charades, you should download this app.Some benefits of the app include:It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.It is free.It offers a fun way to interact with your children or grandchildren.Lumosity Developers have transformed cognition tests created by scientists mini mind games. Lumosity says their games will keep your mind sharp by working to enhance memory, attention and other skills. After each game, you can see your results or scores.Yoga for Adults & Seniors: For Increased Mobility & Flexibility A yoga instructor will guide you through stretches and sequences tailored for adults and seniors. It's also beneficial for those of all ages with restricted mobility.Diabetes AppsDiabetes is becoming more prevalent across the globe. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) predicts diabetes will be the seventh leading cause of death in 2030. The majority of people around the world with diabetes have Type 2 diabetes.However, people can delay or prevent Type 2 diabetes with physical activity, a healthy diet and maintaining a normal body, according to the WHO. Here are some apps created to help people manage their diabetes.Always consult your physician for medical advice regarding diabetes diagnosis, treatment and management. If you are interested in trying one of these apps, ask your doctor if it would be beneficial to your care plan.MyNetDiary is a calorie counter, weight and exercise tracker, and more. It has an extensive index of food items ranging from specific brands to dishes at popular restaurants. There is a separate app, called, MyNetDiary Diabetes Tracker, where you or your loved one can view reports to see the impact of foods, medications and exercise on blood glucose levels. MyNetDiary works best if you create an account on their website.Some benefits of the app include:It is free to download. However, the Pro version of the app is $3.99, the Diabetes Tracker app is $9.99 and the Maximum upgrade subscription is $5 per month.It is compatible with Android devices and AppleIt can sync with activity trackers, such as the Fitbit.mySugr tracks blood glucose levels, medication, meals and physical activity. It has colorful, clear graphs and charts that make it easy to understand how food and exercise influence glucose levels. mySugr also has a HGA1c (hemoglobin A1c) monitor on the home screen, so you can quickly check your results.Some benefits of the app include:It is free to download. However, you can choose to upgrade to the Pro version for $2.99 per month or $27.99 per year. You can also purchase a certified diabetes educator coaching feature for $19.99 per month or $199.99 per year.It is compatible with Android devices and AppleIt connects with glucometers, such as Accu-Chek.Fooducate is a health and activity monitor. The app calls itself a nutritionist in your pocket because when a user scans a food products bar code, the app analyzes the products nutrition panel and ingredient list. Fooducate also grades raw and pre-prepared meats, processed and raw fruits, and much more. In the app you can share recipes and motivation within the community.Some benefits of the app include:It is free to download. However, you can choose to purchase a subscription for premium features. Premium features let users customize their dietary needs in case of food allergies, such as gluten and lactose intolerances.It is compatible with Android devices and AppleIt recommends healthier options based on what you are eating.Glucoracle is an app and research project at Columbia University. The app can predict your or your loved ones blood sugar levels after eating a specific snack or food. All you need to do is take a photo of your food item, estimate the nutritional content (such as carbohydrates) and the app will calculate a blood glucose forecast. The researchers goal is to help people with diabetes to improve their self-management by making healthier meal choices and preventing blood sugar spikes and crashes.Some benefits of the app include:It is free to download.It is compatible with Android devices and AppleThe forecast is personalized through food intake and blood glucose measurements.Apps for People With DementiaApps can be beneficial and fun for people with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia. The following apps may not be appropriate for all the stages of dementia, so test out which apps will be best for your loved one. Pocket Pond 2 Everything is Zen in this app, recommended by the Alzheimers Association. You and your loved one can design a relaxing pond by adding koi fish, lily pads and other creatures. You can even make splashes in your pool. There are more in depth ways to play, such as raising and selling your koi, but you dont need to do that to enjoy the game.Some benefits of the app include:It is free to download.It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.In-app purchase options can be turned off.Tiny Piano and Mini Piano: These two apps, for Apple products and Android devices respectively, allows you to play on a tiny, mini piano. The little pianos display a section of realistic piano keys, which you and your loved one can press. You can play famous songs or create your own masterpiece. What sets these two piano apps apart is that you can tap any key to follow along with the song. So, your loved one can enjoy the music by just keeping the tempo, hitting anywhere on the piano. This is a great option for those who have limited physical and/or cognitive abilities.Some benefits of the app include:It is free to download.It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products, respectively.The apps come with free, preloaded songs.Colorfy This app makes it easier to participate in the adult coloring trend. Colorfy is equipped with templates or coloring books, featuring designs such as mandalas, flowers and animals. To color, select a colored pencil and just tap the section or area you want to fill in. If you make a mistake, you can use the undo option. You can also zoom into the image if your loved one has low vision. The one drawback is that while the app is free, not every coloring book is free.Some benefits of the app include:It is free to download.It is compatible with Android devices and Apple products.The app can run without an internet connection.