Is There Such a Thing as Caregiver Burnout?
Humans have an innate sense of compassion, especially toward people close to our hearts. We care for our loved ones without expecting anything in return. However, caring for the elderly can be very time consuming. The demands of older people can sometimes be too much that it leaves caregivers emotionally and physically spent. If you’ve reached a point where you are mentally, physically, and emotionally drained, it’s time to consider a senior referral service.
Understanding Caregiver Burnout
What is Caregiver Burnout?
By definition, caregiver burnout is a state where you experience complete mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion. As a result, you may feel anxious, depressed, and fatigued.
If you suffer from caregiver burnout, you may notice a change in your attitude. Instead of being positive and caring, you become hostile and indifferent. Burnout can happen if you don’t get help or push yourself to do more than you are capable of.
What Causes Caregiver Burnout
You can care for others, but you should set a limit. Don’t give so much of yourself that you forget your own spiritual, physical, and emotional health. The demands of other people and your willingness to meet those demands will eventually take a toll on your overall health.
Role Confusion
You may experience role confusion when you become the caregiver. For example, some people find it hard to separate their caregiver role from their roles as friends, children, spouses, or lovers.
Impractical Expectations
There’s also a tendency for caregivers to think that their role should positively impact the patient. This isn’t applicable to all patients, especially those who have Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. To prevent burnout, you should set realistic expectations.
Lack of Control
It all starts with a care plan. You’ve perfected an ideal care plan for your loved ones because you know they deserve it, but you lack the experiences and resources to effectively manage and implement your plan.
Unreasonable Demands
You may place an overwhelming and often impractical burden on yourself by thinking that providing care is your sole responsibility. Oftentimes, this responsibility is expected of you by other members of the family, but there is no shame in asking for help.
Can You Prevent Caregiver Burnout?
The good news is that you can prevent caregiver burnout from happening. First, you should find someone you trust to air out your frustrations and feelings. Second, be honest with yourself. If you can’t do it, ask for help.
It’s also important to enjoy your breaks, even if it’s just a few hours. Set realistic expectations so you won’t end up frustrated. Most importantly, know your limits. If you feel that you’re on the brink of burnout, talk to a professional.
Do You Need a Senior Referral Service?
Don’t overwork yourself, because we can help you find a reliable caregiver for your loved ones. At Next Level Senior Advisors, we know Oklahoma like the back of our hands, and we can guarantee you that we will find the best place for your family.
Our years of experience and knowledge are sure to meet your loved ones’ needs. If you have questions about anything, we are here to answer all of your questions to provide you with clarity. Call us today for a free consultation.
Ask Us Anything
If you have any questions about Next Level Senior Advisors or our services, please fill out the form below and a representative will reach out to you as soon as possible.
