Informal caregivers come in all shapes, sizes and backgrounds, and most take care of aging in place elderly relatives. And although caregiving is highly rewarding, looking after an older loved one can oftentimes be physically, mentally and emotionally exhausting. Caregiver fatigue and burnout are common, either of which can place both the caregiver and care recipient at risk. August is National Wellness Month, which makes it the perfect time for informal caregivers everywhere to pause and reflect on these self-care tips. 

Signs of Caregiver Burnout

The average informal caregiver juggles caregiving responsibilities with managing a household and at least a part-time job. As those daily pressures add up family conflict, social withdrawal and financial difficulties are common as a result. 

In general, here are some classic warning signs of caregiver burnout: 

  • Feelings of anxiety, guilt, hopelessness or helplessness 
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability
  • A weakened immune system
  • Rapid weight gain or loss
  • Substance abuse
  • Digestive problems
  • Frequent headaches
  • Withdrawing from family and friends

Left unaddressed, caregiver burnout can significantly diminish the quality of life for all parties involved.  

Self-Care Tips for Family Caregivers

Fortunately, there are several good ways for you focus on self-care as a caregiver to stay recharged and refreshed, starting with these: 

Practice self-compassion

You constantly show compassion to others, so give yourself credit for how tough and complex the art of caregiving is. Don’t feel guilty or selfish while focusing on your own needs for at least a few minutes every day. Practicing self-compassion will help you remain more attentive, effective and balanced when providing your loved one with the nurturing they deserve. 

Eat right and get plenty of sleep

Skipping meals and lying awake at night worrying are not doing your body and mind any good. Be sure to eat a nutrient-rich diet that’s filled with healthy fresh fruits and veggies while avoiding processed foods that contain large amounts of saturated fats and sugar.

The human body performs optimally on 7 to 8 hours of sleep every day, so find ways to get enough rest so that yours can repair itself and stay recharged. Before going to bed start a routine that includes activities like deep breathing exercises, Yoga, prayer and meditation. 

Stay socially connected

Social isolation will exacerbate any feelings of helplessness, hopelessness and depression you might already have. Block off enough time to have lunch with friends, go on a date with your partner or take a weekend getaway with your kids.

You can also join a caregiver support group in your community where you can share your feelings with others who will understand what you’re going through.  

Exercise regularly

Working out 3 to 5 times a week by taking long walks, doing Pilates, bicycling or practicing mind/body exercises like Yoga or Tai Chi is highly beneficial. Regular exercise helps lower stress, induces a more restful sleep, strengthens your immune system and builds self-esteem. However, before starting an exercise-program be sure to get a complete physical from your doctor. 

Ask for help

When you are starting to feel run down don’t be afraid to ask for help. Compile a list of ways that others can lighten your caregiving load by transporting your loved one around, dropping off meals or helping them manage their finances.

Some possible sources of caregiving assistance may include:

  • Trustworthy family members, friends and neighbors
  • Online pharmacy delivery services like PillPack 
  • Grocery stores that deliver to the home
  • Volunteers that work with seniors
  • Adult daycare
  • Meal delivery services
  • Professional respite caregivers from a licensed home care agency

Affordable In-Home Respite Care for Alabama Seniors

Taking care of yourself while caring for an aging in place loved one isn’t easy. When you need a hand contact Seniors Prefer Homecare. As a fully licensed and insured home care agency, our well-trained respite caregivers can provide your senior with the compassionate care they need as they continue enjoying all the comforts of home. Our agency’s unique approach is designed to lift the spirits of the elderly and family caregivers we serve by offering them flexible, affordable and reliable home care solutions. 

Our respite caregivers stand ready to serve as an extended family in your loved one’s home by delivering services like household duties, companionship care, personal care, dementia care and even live-in and 24-hour care. To learn more about Seniors Prefer Homecare now, or to schedule a FREE consultation for a senior in Huntsville or Tuscaloosa, AL, today, please visit us at: www.seniorspreferhomecare.com!