Approximately 25% of Canadians provide care for an elderly or disabled family member or friend. More than 20% of these caregivers spend 20 hours or more on caregiving responsibilities per week. While caring for a loved one or friend can be rewarding, it can also be stressful.
Since caregivers tend to be very busy caring for others, they often neglect their own physical and emotional needs. Caregiver burnout, which is a state of mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion, can occur if caregivers try to do more than they are able to or don’t get the help they need. Role confusion and having unrealistic expectations can also contribute to caregiver burnout.
Caregivers who are burned out may experience anxiety, depression, and fatigue. Other symptoms of caregiver burnout include difficulty sleeping, having trouble concentrating, and losing interest in hobbies.
This is why it is extremely important to take care of yourself while caring for a loved one or friend. Celebrating small victories, focusing on the things you can control, and asking for help when needed are some steps you can take to prevent caregiver burnout.
If you are experiencing caregiver burnout, or before caregiver burnout becomes a reality, why not get some support by hiring a caregiver who can provide a wide range of home care needs such as bathing, laundry, meal preparation, toileting, and medication assistance?
Using the Boom Health app, you can book professional, dedicated, and dependable in-home caregivers who you can trust to offer the best care for you or your loved one. Boom Health offers nurse-directed care, Alzheimer’s & dementia care, chronic illness care, and health and home care. Find the app on the App Store and Google Play Store.
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
