How To Avoid Caregiver Stress Tips & Tricks

Author

FirstLight Home Care of Colorado Springs

Posted on

Oct 26, 2022

Book/Edition

Colorado - Colorado Springs

It can be overwhelming to take care of a loved one who is aging or living with cognitive problems or a disability. Too much stress can be harmful to you and to the one in your care. It’s important to recognize the signs of caregiver stress and put actions in place to manage and reduce your stress to avoid caregiver stress syndrome.

What Are The Signs Of Caregiver Stress

As a family caregiver, you are “on call” almost all the time. This ongoing demand can make you so focused on the loved one in your care, that you forget about yourself. This can lead to caregiver stress. You put your own health and well-being on the backburner to take care of them and their everyday needs. If you are suffering from caregiver stress syndrome, you can’t provide the proper care to your loved ones.

How Caregiver Stress Manifests

Stress from caregiving can sneak up on you. It’s important to keep watch for these signs of caregiver stress:
• Feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried
• Feeling tired often
• Getting too much sleep or not enough sleep
• Gaining or losing weight
• Becoming easily irritated or angry
• Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
• Feeling sad for no reason
• Having frequent headaches, bodily pain or other physical problems
• Abusing alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications

How To Deal With Caregiver Stress

Accept help.

Make a list of the ways family and friends can help you and let them choose what they would like to do. Be specific and let them know the days and times that you could use their help.

Set daily goals.

Having a laundry list of tasks that must get done each week can be overwhelming. Break down your week into daily goals and then prioritize, make lists and establish a daily routine.

Exercise regularly.

Schedule time each day to do some type of physical activity. Not only will it help you stay fit, but exercise is also a stress reliever. Being active can boost your feel- good endorphins and distract you from daily worries.

Eat a healthy, balanced diet.

Unhealthy eating patterns can cause stress levels to skyrocket and potentially increase your risk of health problems in the future. Being stressed can increase your need for certain nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin, B, selenium (an antioxidant that fights oxidative stress and helps defend the body from chronic diseases) and magnesium. A well-balanced and nutritious diet is one of the most important ingredients for good health.

Get plenty of sleep.

Not getting quality sleep over a long period of time can cause health issues. If you have trouble getting a good night’s sleep, talk to your doctor.

Join a support group.

If you’re feeling alone and overwhelmed, finding a local support group can provide connection and interaction, as well as problem-solving strategies for difficult situations. The people in support groups will be nonjudgmental to your situation. They understand what you may be going through and can provide counsel, support and even friendship.

Take a well-deserved break.

Everyone needs time away to relieve stress and restore energy. And, let’s face it…taking personal time for yourself can do a world of good! Hiring an outside source to offer support with respite care—from a few hours each week to several days—can allow family caregivers to step away from caregiving responsibilities and take care of themselves. Respite care is an essential part of being a caregiver.

Keep your doctor appointments.

Studies have shown that caregivers are likely to suffer from several health problems. Make it a priority to see your doctor regularly to discuss any concerns or symptoms you have.

Why Is Stress Management Important – Caregiver Stress Syndrome

Family caregivers face a lot of stress. Many work full-time jobs and raise their own families on top of the responsibilities of looking after their aging parents. The demands of the job can take both a physical and mental toll on even the most resilient people, leaving them drained and exhausted. This can lead to caregiver stress syndrome In order to be more patient and available, it’s important to keep caregiver stress within manageable boundaries. These tips reveal why it’s important for family caregivers to lower their stress levels and how to do so every day.

Why is stress bad?

While a little stress is natural, too much can cause long-term problems. Developing caregiver stress by prolonged exposure to stressful situations can
leave caregivers more vulnerable to developing health issues. It can raise your blood pressure, lower the strength of your immune system and lead to long-term diseases like heart disease or stroke. This demanding lifestyle can also interrupt sleep while causing irritability and headaches. Certain caregivers are at an exceptional risk of feeling stress—females, live-in caregivers and those with depression often have higher stress levels than others.

Caregiver stress can not only lead to illness, but it can also preoccupy your mind and lower your patience with whomever you’re caring for. It’s important to make sure you’re regulating your stress levels and identifying when you need to take a step back to look after yourself before others.

FirstLight Home Care – Senior Home Caregiver Services

We understand how stressful family caregiving can be, but hopefully, these tips will help you learn to manage the demands of the job while remaining relaxed and happy. One of our main goals is to relieve you of caregiver stress.

If you need family caregiving support so that you can take care of your loved one without caregiver stress, we can help. Contact FirstLight Home Care today.

Other Articles You May Like

Tips to Help Seniors Find New Hobbies

Retirement offers a unique opportunity for seniors to enrich their lives by exploring new passions, hobbies, and interests. However, in some cases, health challenges and mobility limitations can create barriers to pursuing these activities. In these situations, the experienced in-home senior care providers at Gentle Shepherd Home Care in Colorado Springs can help.Our caregivers understand the importance of fostering engagement and independence for seniors and strive to assist them in discovering and pursuing new hobbies and passions.7 Hobbies to ConsiderBelow, we will explore 7 hobbies that seniors should consider pursuing in retirement:Consider Past PassionsMany times, past passions can provide valuable clues to what may bring joy in the present. Consider activities enjoyed in the past. Is there a hobby that was once loved but never had the time to pursue fully? Revisiting these interests can reignite passions and provide a sense of familiarity in trying something new.Explore CreativityWhen it comes to creativity, there is no such thing as an ae limit. Consider pursuing artistic pursuits such as painting, photography, pottery, writing, and more. Many communities have a senior center that offers classes tailored to seniors, providing a supportive environment to nurture creative talents. In addition to providing mental stimulation, these activities also offer a therapeutic outlet for self-expression.Physical ActivitiesPhysical activity is critical for maintaining overall health and well-being, especially as we age. Consider exploring a variety of exercises that cater to personal interests and physical capabilities such as yoga, dancing, tai chi, swimming, and more. These activities can help seniors stay active and energized. In addition, group classes and/or clubs can foster a sense of camaraderie while staying fit.Volunteer ActivitiesVolunteering is a great way to give back to the community, while also staying socially engaged. Consider volunteering with organizations that align with personal interests and values. Regardless of passions, there are plenty of organizations within the community that are looking for volunteers. Volunteering offers a variety of benefits including providing a sense of purpose and fostering meaningful connections.Embrace LearningLearning should be a lifelong pursuit. Consider exploring educational opportunities such as attending lectures, joining discussion groups, enrolling in online courses, and more. In some cases, local community colleges and universities offer special programs for seniors to expand knowledge in areas ranging from history and literature to science and technology.Connect with NatureSpending time outdoors can provide a variety of physical and mental benefits. Consider connecting with nature through activities such as gardening, birdwatching, nature photography, and more. Check with the local community center to learn about nature clubs and organized outings to explore the local parks, botanical gardens, and trails with others who share the same passions.Cultivate Social ConnectionsBuilding and maintaining social connections through retirement is critical for overall well-being. Look for opportunities to connect with others who share the same passions. Join groups within the community that are tailored for seniors. In addition, consider attending community events, cultural activities, religious gatherings, and more to connect with others and forge meaningful relationships.How Gentle Shepherd Home Care Can Help Seniors Find New HobbiesThe in-home elderly care experts from Gentle Shepherd Home Care in Colorado Springs can help seniors find new hobbies. We understand that everyone is unique and take the time to get to know our clients to provide personalized support and companionship, as well as encouragement and motivation. In addition, we can help seniors research and access community programs, classes, and events that align with their interests. Contact us today to schedule your care assessment with one of our highly skilled caregivers.

Join Self-Care Speaker, Steve Whatley of HomeWell Care Services, Plano, TX on Saturday, May 4th at The Hope for The Caregiver Conference at Prestonwood Baptist Church

Join Self-Care Speaker, Steve Whatley of HomeWell Care Services, Plano, TX on Saturday, May 4th at The Hope for The Caregiver Conference at Prestonwood Baptist Church, Plano Campus. Encouraging the family caregiver to focus on self-care.You Promised to Take Care of Them, but You Dont Have to Do It AloneBeing a family caregiver is one of the toughest jobs anyone can ever undertake. Caring for a family member is emotionally and physically exhausting and can steal ones primary identity: spouse, daughter, son, etc. Many times, the resulting exhaustion is brought about by the caregivers believing they must do everything and waiting too long before seeking assistance.This presentation will focus on encouraging the family caregiver not to lose focus on self-care and protecting against what can be debilitating exhaustion, preventing him or her from carrying out the caregiver role. Further, we will discuss negotiating the healthcare matrix and the best approaches to healthcare systems, communicating with physicians, hospital admissions and discharges, when to seek assistance at home, and 10 Lessons Learned.Steve L. Whatley, Ph.D., is co-owner and CEO of HomeWell Care Services Plano, a full-service in-home care company recognized as a Best of Home Care Provider by Home Care Pulse, the preeminent in-home care reputation management firm. Steve and his wife, Leslie, were led into in-home care after caring for Steves father for seven years. Prior to owning HomeWell, Steve worked in two large healthcare delivery systems: Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, and Childrens Health in Dallas. Steves experience in these two institutions resulted in vast learning about patient care, satisfaction, and loyalty. Steve earned bachelors and masters degrees in psychology from Louisiana Tech University and a Ph.D. in organizational development from Ohio State University. Hope for the Caregiver Conference will be held May 3-4, 2024, at Prestonwood Baptist Church, Plano Campus. Go here to register: Hope for the Caregiver Conference May 3 and 4, 2024 Friday, May 3Conference Rally6:008:00 p.m.Student Ministry BuildingAll conference attendees and the people for whom they provide care are encouraged to attend the rally, which features an interactive session with Dr. Beth Nolan of Teepa Snows Positive Approach to Care who will speak on Building an Inclusive Community.Teepa Snow is a renowned dementia care specialist and occupational therapist.Individuals under the care of a caregiver may attend the Friday evening rally for free. Saturday, May 48:00 a.m.3:00 p.m.AtriumSessions 1 & 4 led by Dr. Beth NolanSessions 2 & 3 led by various experts covering the multiple areas of caregivingMultiple vendors will be ready to share their resources to aid in caring for your loved ones. TopicsCaregivingSelf-careLegal/FinancialSpecial Needs/DisabilitiesMemory CareCost$15 per person or $25 per family (limit two)Cost includes both days of conference, lunch and refreshments.Special Needs CareAvailable at Prestonwood (please indicate with registration)Adult CareAvailable with reservation:Friends Place Adult Day Services1960 Nantucket Dr.Richardson, TX 75080972-437-2940If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Plano, TX, contact the caring staff at HomeWell Care Services Plano, TX, today. Call (469) 596-6500. HomeWell Care Services Plano TX is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Richardson, Garland, Little Elm, Prosper, and the surrounding areas.

Homecoming for Seniors: Thoughtful Move Management

IntroductionReturning home after an extended stay in a hospital, rehabilitation center, or assisted living facility is a significant milestone for seniors. However, transitioning back to familiar surroundings can present challenges, both physically and emotionally. In this guide, we'll explore tips and strategies for thoughtful move management to ensure a smooth and comfortable homecoming experience for seniors.Understanding the Transitionoving back home after a period of absence requires careful planning and consideration. Seniors may face various challenges during this transition, including:Physical Recovery: Seniors returning home may still be recovering from illness, injury, or surgery, requiring adjustments to their living environment to support their recovery.Emotional Adjustment: Returning home can evoke mixed emotions, including relief, excitement, and apprehension. Seniors may feel overwhelmed by the prospect of readjusting to independent living.Home Modifications: Changes to the home environment may be necessary to accommodate seniors' changing needs and abilities. This may include installing safety features, rearranging furniture, or decluttering to improve accessibility.Care Coordination: Seniors may require ongoing care and support upon returning home, necessitating coordination with healthcare providers, caregivers, and family members.Tips for Thoughtful Move ManagementManaging the transition back home for seniors requires a thoughtful and proactive approach. Here are some tips to help make the homecoming experience as smooth and comfortable as possible:Assess Home Environment: Before the senior returns home, assess the living environment for potential hazards or obstacles. Ensure pathways are clear, and essential items are within reach to facilitate safe and independent living.Coordinate Support Services: Arrange for necessary support services, such as home healthcare, physical therapy, or meal delivery, to assist seniors with their recovery and daily living activities.Communicate Openly: Foster open communication with the senior and their caregivers to address any concerns or preferences regarding the homecoming process. Listen attentively to their needs and collaborate on solutions to ensure a positive transition.Plan Home Modifications: Evaluate the home for necessary modifications to enhance safety and accessibility. This may include installing grab bars in bathrooms, ramps for wheelchair access, or adjustable beds for comfort.Declutter and Organize: Clear clutter and organize the home to create a comfortable and functional living space for the senior. Remove unnecessary items to reduce the risk of falls and improve mobility within the home.Create a Supportive Environment: Make the home welcoming and comfortable for the senior's return. Set up a cozy bedroom with familiar belongings, soft lighting, and calming decor to promote relaxation and restful sleep.Establish Routines: Establish daily routines and schedules to provide structure and stability for the senior. Incorporate regular activities, such as meals, medication management, and exercise, to promote overall well-being.Provide Emotional Support: Be empathetic and supportive of the senior's emotional needs during the homecoming process. Offer reassurance, encouragement, and companionship to help alleviate any feelings of anxiety or uncertainty.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand the importance of thoughtful move management for seniors returning home. Our team specializes in creating organized and functional living spaces that promote safety, independence, and peace of mind. With our expertise in decluttering, home modifications, and care coordination, we strive to make the homecoming experience as seamless and comfortable as possible for seniors and their families. Let us be your partner in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for seniors returning home.

Local Services By This Author

FirstLight Home Care of Colorado Springs

Non-Medical 4445 Northpark Drive, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80907

We are a veteran owned business serving the community of Colorado Springs and it's surrounding areas with Extraordinary People who provide Exceptional Care. You, too, can benefit from the same peace of mind our customers receive, knowing youre in the safe hands of our highly trained at-home caregivers who provide their dedication, time and expertise, as well as our excellent additional services.

Firstlight Home Care

Staffing-Medical Services 4445 Northpark Drive, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80907

At FirstLightHome Care, you get to do something that matters. Something that makes a real difference.FirstLight Home Care hires Caregivers, Home Health Aides, CNAs, Care Coordinators, Companion Care and Personal Care Assistants who have integrity, a great capacity for compassion and empathy, and who value a rewarding career. We look for individuals who can help make everyday activities easier for our clients, and who have a genuine desire to enrich the lives of others and make the world a better place!Do you love helping people? Are you a caring, compassionate, active senior, parent, student, or friend? Looking for part or full time work? If so, we want to meet you! Call us today!