By Eileen MacNalich, AMAC
At nearly 35 million strong, family caregivers are the nation’s largest unpaid work force. Caregivers for aging parents in particular, are unsung heroes– tasked with providing meaningful relief and doing their best to give these “patients” the fullest lives possible, they often sacrifice huge parts of their own lives in the process.
It’s common for family caregivers to find their duties rewarding, but also become exhausted and stressed over time. Many are handling caregiving roles on top of other obligations like work and family schedules, and begin to feel guilty or depressed as their stamina dwindles. That’s why managing the stress in your life is just as important as making sure your loved one attends their doctor’s appointment or takes their medication.
Joining a support group may help relieve some of the stress you face daily. A caregiver support group can provide you with a healthy way to share your troubles with others who go through similar experiences each day. If you can’t leave the house, online support groups also exist.
Respite care may also provide you with some much-needed relief if the stress of caregiving becomes too much. Enlist friends and family who live nearby to run errands, bring a meal over, or spend time with your loved one so you can take a well-deserved break. In home services can also be provided by volunteers or paid help, some even available on a regular basis.
Taking on all of the responsibilities of caregiving without any breaks or assistance is a recipe for burnout. Sharing responsibility is one simple way to lighten the load and give your life more balance.
For more information on caregiver resources, support networks, and options for family caregivers, you can contact these organizations:
1) your local Area Agency on Aging Caregiver Services
2) Caregiver Action Network http://caregiveraction.org/
3) Family Caregiver Alliance by https://www.caregiver.org/