Avoiding burnout as a caregiver is a necessary, but challenging undertaking. It is an unfortunate truth that many caregivers find themselves in a state of emotional and physical exhaustion at some point in the process. Caregiving is an extremely demanding job. Most caregivers have insufficient support and are the primary care provider for a loved one. The demands are often 24/7 and taking the time to take care of oneself and/or do the things once enjoyed are not possible. It’s a perfect setup for burnout.
Whatever your particular case, being proactive and taking steps to avoid burnout is essential. Here are just a few suggestions.
Create a Schedule for Your Day
The primary way to avoid caregiver burnout is to take care of yourself. It can be very helpful to sit down and plan your day to the extent that you are able, and in that planning actually schedule breaks and periods of time where you can do a few things for yourself.
In addition, plan future, out-of-the-house breaks for yourself. Look for local daycare for your charge, or respite care for longer periods of time so that you can actually get away from the demands of 24/7 care. Schedule a get-away every six months for a day or a weekend or whatever you can manage. A change of scenery, even if you just sit and stare into space contributes to the process of avoiding burnout.
Whenever possible, find others who can care for your loved one when you need a rest. This might mean hiring an assistant, bringing in respite care services, or delegating tasks within the family so everyone shares in the responsibilities.
Find a Support System
Caregivers often find themselves isolated from friends and family who do not understand what they are going through or simply cannot relate to the daily challenges faced as a caregiver.
Finding a support system with people facing similar circumstances can help you feel less alone and more understood. Avoiding burnout requires a little effort at first, but it will pay off in the long run. You may also find that others in your support system have great advice for how to avoid caregiver burnout based on their own experience.
Keep Up With Self-care Routines
Do you very best to keep up with your own self-care routines such as exercising, healthy eating, skincare, and doctor’s visits. As a caregiver, you’re likely to feel drained and exhausted, and it’s hard to remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as caring for your loved one, maybe more important.
If you don’t take care of yourself first, it will be harder for you to provide the best possible care for your loved one. There is an old saying that, “you can’t pour from an empty cup” and this is very true when you are a caregiver.
The following self-care tips can help you avoid caregiver burnout:
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- Keep up with self-care routines like exercise, meditation, healthcare visits
- Get enough sleep
- Eat healthy food
- Spend time away from home
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In addition, try not to worry about what is going on at home while you are on a break. Be in the moment and do your best to enjoy your time off.
Care for Yourself Too
The most important thing you can do as a caregiver is to ensure that you are also taking care of yourself. Avoiding burnout requires avoiding overwhelm, especially the type that paralyzes you and prevents you from enjoying your life.
If you feel your caregiving responsibilities are too much for you to handle, don’t be too hard on yourself. It’s a demanding job, particularly when combined with other important duties. Remember that residential aged care is also an option, allowing you to give your loved one the best care possible while keeping your own mental and physical health in check.
Take the time to think about your needs so you can ensure that you can be the best caregiver possible. In the beginning, take small steps towards self-care. After a while, it will become second nature.
