6 Simple Ways to Stave Off Caregiver Burnout

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6 Ways to Avoid Caregiver Burnout in Edmonton, AB

Caring for a senior loved one can be a rewarding experience full of unexpected surprises and challenges. By following these tips, you can handle the challenges gracefully and prevent caregiver burnout.

1. Develop Realistic Goals

Providing the best possible care for your loved one doesn’t mean you need to be perfect. Instead, set goals that allow you and your loved one to enjoy every moment together. For example, if your loved one is tired after having a meal, help him or her find a space to relax before washing dishes. Allowing extra time in your daily schedule reduces frustration and encourages a more relaxed pace both you and your loved one can enjoy.

If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of Edmonton home care. Services our caregivers provide include transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.

2. Build Your Team

One of the simplest ways to prevent caregiver burnout is sharing caregiving duties with nearby friends, family members, and professional caregivers. One benefit of choosing a professional caregiver is around-the-clock availability, allowing you to tend to your own needs. Leaving your loved one in someone else’s care may be difficult, but sharing your responsibilities provides you the free time you need to recharge.

3. Network with Other Caregivers

Caregiver support groups are a safe place to talk about your daily challenges and fears, and group members can offer several tips to help you maintain a balanced lifestyle. Talking to other caregivers can also reduce feelings of isolation and keep depression at bay. If local support groups aren’t available, search online to find forums and social media pages dedicated to connecting caregivers.

4. Schedule Daily Downtime

Each day brings new challenges and adventures when you are a caregiver. To stay focused instead of exhausted, spend an hour each day doing something you enjoy. Reading an inspirational book, engaging in artwork, and exercising are just a few of the things you can do to enhance your sense of peace and wellbeing. 

5. Find Time for Friends and Family

Both you and your loved one can benefit from maintaining an active social life. Invite friends and family into your home often, and make date night a priority if you are in a long-term relationship. If you don’t have friends and family who live nearby, consider hosting a neighborhood meet and greet to make new friends in your local area.

For families living in Edmonton, AB, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.

6. Learn to Identify Burnout

Recognizing the signs of burnout allows you to seek help so you can provide your loved one with the best care possible. Some common signs of burnout include loss of interest in favorite activities, anxiety, irritability, and fatigue. Consult your doctor if symptoms like depression or anxiety are present, and learn new ways to successfully balance caregiving and self-care.

Consider hiring a professional caregiver if you’re feeling burned out. If your senior loved one needs hourly or live-in care, Edmonton Home Care Assistance can help. Our caregivers can assist with exercise and mobility, prepare nutritious meals, provide timely medication reminders, and help with a wide array of other important daily tasks. Call one of our professional Care Managers at (780) 490-7337 to create a care plan for your aging loved one.

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