According to the AARP, caregivers generally spend an average of 24.4 hours a week providing care for loved ones. Here’s a startling statistic: almost 25% of caregivers spend more than 40 hours a week helping with Activities of Daily Living (ADL). Not surprisingly, caregiver stress compounds when medical/nursing tasks, such as tube feedings and catheter care, are also added to the equation. In this article, we provide more actionable tips on preventing caregiver burnout in Queens.
Signs And Symptoms Of Caregiver Stress
A recent poll found that nearly 50% of caregivers who handle medical/nursing tasks have not received medical training to perform those tasks. Unquestionably, this lack of training compounds caregiver stress. If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms, you may be in danger of suffering caregiver burnout:
- losing many hours of sleep each night
- feeling persistent sadness, anger, and anxiety
- lashing out at others without cause
- losing what used to be a healthy appetite
- relying on alcohol and other stimulants to relax
Preventing Caregiver Burnout: Taking Care Of The Caregiver
Although caregiver stress is unavoidable, there are ways to manage its intensity. Here are some:
- Join a support group of caregiver peers: You can join in-person or online support groups. There’s a group for everyone, regardless of your challenges. Check out Family Caregiver Alliance support groups here.
- Arrange a check-up with your family physician: It’s equally important to care for your physical health. Talk to your doctor about your caregiving challenges. Be explicitly honest about them. You may be surprised at what your doctor can do for you.
- Don’t be too hard on yourself: Unsurprisingly, many caregivers feel guilty about experiencing negative emotions. However, it’s important to acknowledge your humanity. Accept the way you feel, so that you can deal with these emotions more effectively.
- Join a gym: Although this one may feel counter-intuitive, a good cardiovascular workout can improve your mood, boost your energy, and add years to your life.
David York Understands The Needs Of Caregivers And Can Help Alleviate Caregiver Burnout In Queens
Caregivers in Queens need not navigate the challenges of elder care alone. David York can help.
If you need more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at 718.376.7755. A free phone consultation can help you decide what services might be best. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter, Google+, or LinkedIn.
David York Agency Home Healthcare is committed to providing personalized care for your loved one. If you have questions about our services, please contact us.
