It’s estimated that 53 million Americans serve as unpaid family caregivers. But what happens when the responsibility of caregiving becomes too much? Over 60% of family caregivers of aging adults say that they or someone they know has been impacted by professional caregiver shortages. While unpaid caregivers fulfill a much-needed role for their loved ones, they may find it difficult to balance their own needs with the needs of those they care for, leading to caregiver fatigue.
Caregiver fatigue, also known as caregiver burnout, is a state of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion that affects individuals who provide ongoing care for a family member or other loved one. With over 60% of caregivers saying their caregiving responsibilities have increased their levels of stress, it’s important for caregivers to learn strategies to avoid fatigue so they can support their own wellness and continue providing effective care for their loved ones. In this article, we’ll discuss the signs of caregiver fatigue and how to avoid it.
Signs of Caregiver Fatigue
Caregiver fatigue can manifest in many ways. It’s important to be aware of the common signs so you can address the issues you’re facing and seek help if needed. Symptoms of caregiver fatigue include:
Depression
Withdrawal
Feeling helpless or hopeless
Difficulty regulating emotions
Physical fatigue
Trouble sleeping
Poor self-esteem
Abuse or neglect of the person receiving care
How to Avoid Caregiver Fatigue
If you’re experiencing caregiver fatigue, remember that there are many strategies and resources available to you. Taking the following actions can help you manage caregiver fatigue or avoid it altogether:
Accept Support: Reach out to family, friends, or support groups to share the caregiving responsibilities and provide opportunities for respite. Accepting help from others can lighten the burden and prevent burnout.
Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a priority by scheduling regular breaks, engaging in activities that bring relaxation and joy, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through proper nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep.
Utilize Respite Care Services: Take advantage of respite care services, which provide temporary relief for caregivers by arranging for professional care for the care recipient, allowing the caregiver to take a break and attend to their own needs.
Practice Open Communication: Engage in open communication with other family members, healthcare professionals, and the care recipient to express your needs, concerns, and challenges. Clear communication can lead to a better understanding of the caregiving situation and facilitate support.
Seek Professional Help: If feelings of burnout persist, consider seeking professional counseling or therapy to address the emotional and psychological impact of caregiving.
Additional support for people experiencing caregiver burnout can be found through the Department of Health and Human Services or the National Family Caregiver Support Program.
SelectQuote is Here to Support Caregivers
Caregiving is no easy task, but seeking support and resources can help caregivers through difficult times. At SelectQuote, we offer advice and guidance for both caregivers and those they care for to help support a positive quality of life and overall health and wellness.
