We can better understand stressors when we track our trigger points: common triggers are limited downtime, emotional or physical exhaustion, lack of sleep, and lack of support. Once a caregiver has a better understanding of what is causing the stress, he or she can customize a plan to relieve it.
August 21 marks National Senior Citizens Day, a special occasion dedicated to honoring and appreciating the senior members of our community.
A garden is a paradise for all the senses! The taste of a sun-warmed tomato, the cool feel of a watering can, the floral smell of roses, the view of a lush, green plant against a turquoise sky: so many pleasures for the home gardener and the sensory support it provides, a wonderfully satisfying space for people living with dementia too.
Home care agencies like ours are here to serve seniors, but we're equally dedicated to supporting their family members. This is called respite care, a home care service which provides temporary breaks for family caregivers.
Did you know that about 1 in 3 adults serves as an informal caregiver to another adult, like an aging parent or disabled relative? Here are some other noteworthy facts from Caregiver.org about family caregivers:
• About 43.5 million people offer unpaid caregiving in the US
• About 15.7 million caregivers are helping someone with a memory illness
• About 75% of caregivers are females
• About 57% of caregivers perform clinical tasks
• The average caregiver is 49 years old
• Family caregivers spend 24.4 hours caregiving a week on average
• 40% of caregivers are in high-burden situations
Do you fit into these statistics? You balance your workday with check-ins on your elder Mom or Dad who live nearby, or you stop in every Saturday to help your neighbor manage his medications. There may be wounds on a loved one that need dressing, lawns that need mowing, and meals that require preparation. Although many family caregivers find the opportunity to care for a loved one a privilege, it can also be demanding. Over time, financial difficulties, limited personal free time, and lack of other caregiving options for a loved one can lead to caregiver burnout. Here are some tips on how to cope effectively:
-Ask for and accept help because even if only temporary, there may be others in your care circle willing to assist with tasks.
-Set realistic goals by considering saying “no” to extra requests and demands.
- Connect with others through support groups or friends who listen and understand.
-Make yourself a priority by ensuring you get enough sleep, exercise, and self-care. Don’t take short cuts on your health and wellness needs.
This article was written through our partnership with Clear Care.
