Dealing with caregiver stress is a major reality in our modern society. With people living to be older today than ever before, it is suffered by many. Physical, emotional, and mental problems are all real conditions having to be dealt with. Help is available for those who need it.
A caregiver is anyone who provides help to someone who cannot function on their own to do regular daily tasks. Most are unpaid and are related to the person for whom they give care. It is estimated that at least forty-five million people are functioning as caregivers today, with some saying it may be several million more. It usually involves taking care of an elderly family member, but it can also be a parent taking care of a disabled child.
At some point in their lives almost everyone will face this job. The majority are women and some have an outside job in addition to looking after their loved one. Those who work usually have to make significant adjustments to their work schedule. It might even be wise to talk with your employer about taking some unpaid leave so that your stress level does not go too high.
This responsibility is the cause of a much strain for the caregivers. Feelings of anger, frustration, and guilt are quite common. Their social life is often impacted in a negative way. Feeling exhausted and overwhelmed are also quite common.
Unfortunately, those who care for others are much more likely to suffer medical problems of their own over the long term. They tend to be more likely to get things like depression and heart disease. They also tend to be slower to heal when they do become ill.
Solutions are available for these stress issues. It is often quite helpful to talk to either a psychologist or a counselor. Also seek advice from your own primary medical provider. Many medical offices now offer training classes that teach how to care for patients with specific medical issues like dementia. Always take help from others when it is offered. You may feel like you are responsible for everything, but this does not have to be the case. Make a list of priorities and set realistic goals for yourself. When appropriate, discuss your situation with other family members. You may find that they are more than willing to lend a helping hand. Be sure to set aside some time just for you. Keep in touch with friends. Only by taking care of yourself, can you be at your best to help someone else.
Although some negatives exist for this responsibility, it also offers many positive rewards as well. Many caregivers say that they have become even closer to their loved one. They also feel more needed and like they are really making a difference.
Caregiver stress can have a big impact on a person. However, if you check in your community and state, you may find that there are several agencies that can give both you and the one you care for some necessary aid. Go to your local Area Agency on Aging. They have many resources available. Also consider things like respite care or adult day care to make your own life a little less stressful. Do not be afraid to take advantages of these resources.
A caregiver is anyone who provides help to someone who cannot function on their own to do regular daily tasks. Most are unpaid and are related to the person for whom they give care. It is estimated that at least forty-five million people are functioning as caregivers today, with some saying it may be several million more. It usually involves taking care of an elderly family member, but it can also be a parent taking care of a disabled child.
At some point in their lives almost everyone will face this job. The majority are women and some have an outside job in addition to looking after their loved one. Those who work usually have to make significant adjustments to their work schedule. It might even be wise to talk with your employer about taking some unpaid leave so that your stress level does not go too high.
This responsibility is the cause of a much strain for the caregivers. Feelings of anger, frustration, and guilt are quite common. Their social life is often impacted in a negative way. Feeling exhausted and overwhelmed are also quite common.
Unfortunately, those who care for others are much more likely to suffer medical problems of their own over the long term. They tend to be more likely to get things like depression and heart disease. They also tend to be slower to heal when they do become ill.
Solutions are available for these stress issues. It is often quite helpful to talk to either a psychologist or a counselor. Also seek advice from your own primary medical provider. Many medical offices now offer training classes that teach how to care for patients with specific medical issues like dementia. Always take help from others when it is offered. You may feel like you are responsible for everything, but this does not have to be the case. Make a list of priorities and set realistic goals for yourself. When appropriate, discuss your situation with other family members. You may find that they are more than willing to lend a helping hand. Be sure to set aside some time just for you. Keep in touch with friends. Only by taking care of yourself, can you be at your best to help someone else.
Although some negatives exist for this responsibility, it also offers many positive rewards as well. Many caregivers say that they have become even closer to their loved one. They also feel more needed and like they are really making a difference.
Caregiver stress can have a big impact on a person. However, if you check in your community and state, you may find that there are several agencies that can give both you and the one you care for some necessary aid. Go to your local Area Agency on Aging. They have many resources available. Also consider things like respite care or adult day care to make your own life a little less stressful. Do not be afraid to take advantages of these resources.
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