Coping as a family caregiver
Individuals are born into the world
requiring the care of their parents and
other adult guardians to grow and thrive.
These adult children, in turn, may end up
providing care when their parents reach
senior age or face an illness or disability.
-
ly and physically taxing.tax
An estimated 43.5 million adults in
the United States have hav
provided unpaid care to an adult or a
child h ld in the h prior 12 12
months, according to the National Alliance
for Caregiving and AARP Public Policy Institute.
It’s not uncommon for caregivers of any age to feel
stressed and burned out by the demands of caregiving. The
Mayo Clinic says people who experience caregiver stress can
be vulnerable to changes in their own health. Some signs of
• Feeling overwhelmed
or constantly worried
• Feeling tired most
of the time
• Gaining or losing
a lot of weight
• Becoming easily
irritated or angry
• Losing interest in acti-
vities you used to enjoy
headaches, bodily pain
or other physical
problems
Some caregivers even resort to drugs and alcohol to
self-medicate, which can lead to further issues. To avoid the
potential pitfalls of caregiver stress, individuals should al-
-
ed stress of caring for a loved one. These suggestions are just
a start.
Don’t strive for perfection
It isn’t possible to maintain a patient attitude and get everything
done perfectly each and every day. People are not
perfect and mistakes will be made. Do not punish yourself if
you lash out or simply need a break.
Eat healthy
As anyone who has dealt with a hungry toddler can at-
-
tional meltdown. Be sure to always make time for nutritious
meals. This will help keep up energy stores and enable you to
better cope with caregiver stress.
Pay attention to mood changes
Anxiety or depression can sneak up on you when you
least expect it. Ask for help if you feel your tasks are becoming
too overwhelming. Seek the help of a doctor if changes
in mood, sleeping patterns, appetite, and the like become noticeable.
Getting a break from caregiving and setting aside time for
yourself can increase patience levels and the ability to bounce
back from stress. Whenever possible, have a friend or another
relative step in for you so you get a break. Explore resources
available for professional aides to come and take some of the
responsibilities off of your shoulders.
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