There are varying degrees of caregiving. This may be accompanied by a change in attitude toward life, their loved ones, or those whom they are caring for. One can even feel guilty for spending resources - including time and energy - on themselves instead of their loved ones.
Signs include fatigue, trouble sleeping, anxiety, and relationship issues. When the caregiving burden is affecting health and well-being, caregivers should reach out to their resources for help. Family members may be willing to help, but may be waiting to be asked or simply are not sure what they can do. Care, such as providing rides to the store and medical appointments, helping with activities of daily living, and other forms of caregiver relief, can be coordinated at a family meeting.
A family phone tree is helpful for communication. There are many local agencies that offer resources to assist and support caregivers, as well as national organizations who help inform caregivers on financial, medical, and other caregiving choices.
It is helpful for a caregiver to commit a minimum of 10 minutes daily either to their own personal needs or to doing something they love. One good way to ease caregiver burnout is with respite care, which is third-party care for a loved one that provides short-term relief. This care can be provided in the home, a skilled facility or adult day program and the time frame can be an afternoon, day, or week. Typically, insurance payments do not cover respite care, which leaves the caregiver responsible for the cost.
There is no fee for their services. There is also no fee for their services. McGregor Pace Augustine, or Brookdale Richmond Assisted Living. Allows up to 14 days a year for respite care. Days do not have to be consecutive.
