Avoiding Caregiver Burnout

By Stephanie Chan

People talk about caregiver burnout often but at the same time, it’s not spoken about enough. Family caregiving can be one of the most rewarding experiences of our lives, but it is also wrought with anxiety, frustration, depression,andfinancial distress.Many movesby seniorsintolong-term care homes are driven by family caregiver burnout, where the family sees no other solution. In this article, we'll discuss some tips for avoiding caregiver burnout. These tips could help family caregiversmaintaintheirmental healthandprovidebetterquality caretotheirlovedones

SharetheCare

One of the principal causes of caregiver burnout is the feeling that, as the primary caregiver, you must do everything yourself. Don't be scared to ask for help and establish boundaries for what you can and cannot handle. As for other priorities in your life, consider what days of the week and times of day you can help your loved one, as well as the tasks you're most suited to help with. If you do not have a car, grocery shopping and dropping food off at your loved one's home is likely difficult and time-consuming. But perhaps you are tech-savvy and can help your parent manage finances and pay bills online. If you work full time during the day, taking your parent to a doctor's appointment might not always be possible, but perhaps you could visit on the weekend and take themtochurchonSundays.

After you consider what you can do, make a list of the things that you cannot do, and consider who you can ask for help. Assistance can be found from several sources, including other family members,friends,neighbours,andpaidcaregiversorotherserviceproviders.

PlanAheadandEducateYourself

Having the correct information to make informed decisions is one of the best ways to avert a crisis. We never know when something unexpected will happen, and having the right information inadvancewillallowfordecisionstobemadecalmly,withthemostoptionsavailable.

If you have a loved one diagnosed with an illness or chronic condition, gather information on the expected progression of that condition, which could allow you to anticipate future care needs and find solutions within your budget. For example, do any home renovations need to be made? Will any mobility equipment, such as walkers or wheelchairs, be necessary? Will you need private in-home care services asthecareneedsofyourlovedoneincrease?

TalktoOthers

While every situation is unique, there are many similarities among families with aging loved ones. It would be beneficial to talk to others to gain knowledge, learn from others’ experiences, and receive advice. A doctor can tell you about the expected trajectory of a loved one’s illness and what their care needs will likely be. A financialadvisorcanhelpyoubudgetforthesecostsandestimatewhatyourloved one can spend without running out of money before end-of-life. An eldercare planner can help you create a roadmap of how to keep your loved one at home and, if needed, how to select and transition to an assisted living or care home. Talking to peers is another great way to get support. Some workplaces have employee resource groups and various peer support networks within local communitiesacrossCanada.