The Families and Work Institute reported in a recent study that 42% of employed people in the U.S. have provided “special attention” to a relative or other senior; and nearly half of those people are providing care for more than one person. This is an astounding statistic in itself, but even more so when you consider the caregiver population that no longer works because they provide care for a loved one. In the coming year, Baby Boomers are expected to reach retirement age at a staggering rate. It is estimated that 10,000 people everyday will turn 65, for the next 19 years.
As the U.S. senior population increase, it is inevitable that demand and pressure for caregivers will increase as well. This will require additional emphasis for raising awareness on “caregiver burnout”, described as an overwhelming physical, emotional, or even financial stress when caring for a loved one. Caregiver burnout can have detrimental effects like feelings of fatigue, isolation, depression and even heightens risk for many harmful health conditions.
In a recent Internet radio show Cindy Hoff Ducker, caregiver and healthcare executive, explained that preparing yourself physically and mentally by eating right, planning time off from caregiving and maintaining a positive attitude should be the first steps to avoiding burnout.
These are tips on how to avoid caregiver burnout:
- Educate yourself. Learn how to properly care for your loved one including best ways to take or administer medication, how to nurse a wound, and moving and positioning your loved one without hurting your back.
- Don’t try to do it alone. Accept the help of others and encourage friends and family to help as often as they can.
- Take care of your own health. Get exercise every day, even if it has to be broken up into short increments or incorporated into your daily tasks
- Make time for a break. There are many senior care centers that offer respite care, or a break for caregivers.
- Join a caregiver support group. Support groups can be an invaluable resource that allows caregivers to share their voice and benefit from the support and advice of others.
- Remind yourself of the remarkable difference you are making. Keeping a positive attitude can have a tremendous impact on emotional stress.
Take our Caregiver Self Assessment Questionnaire and see if you are experiencing any warning signs of caregiver burnout
