Why Family Caregivers Need a Break
Taking care of an elderly relative can be a challenge, especially if they are struggling with one or more chronic illnesses. They may be at a point where they cannot physically take care of their daily needs, and rely on you to help out. From bathing and dressing to shopping and meal preparation, you are likely taking on more and more of the responsibility. However, you could be putting your own health at risk if you try to take on the burden of care by yourself. That’s why many family caregivers find it valuable to take regular breaks from their duties.
Caregiving Duties Add Up
The responsibilities that a family caregiver has for the health and wellness of an aging relative are numerous. Depending on their physical or mental health, an elderly loved one may just need a little assistance here and there or they may be at the point where they cannot be left alone. In order for them to stay healthy and safe, they need you to take care of them.
Here are just a few of the most common family caregiver duties that relatives perform for their aging loved ones:
- Bathing or showering
- Dressing and grooming
- Toilet and hygiene
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Home maintenance
- Grocery shopping
- Meal preparation
- Driving to appointments and errands
- Pet care
- Handling finances
- Coordinating senior services
- Monitoring medication and other treatments
As you can see, there are plenty of things that family caregivers do for their elderly loved one and it doesn’t leave much time for personal responsibilities such as a job, spouse, children or hobbies. When family caregivers devote too much time to their duties, they can experience stress and even burnout.
Get Breaks With Home Care Providers
Home care providers are professionals with training in caring for elderly adults with physical or mental challenges. They can help with all the tasks a senior needs to get through the day, giving you a break from caregiving. You can schedule home care providers as often as you need, and the regular schedule and reliability can allow you to make plans, attend work and do other things you need.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that you can do it all—the caregiving for your loved one plus everything in your own life. There’s just too much for one person to accomplish, and the result is chronic stress that can strain your physical and mental health. You need to stay strong and focused so you can be a good family caregiver to your aging relative. Hiring home care providers is one of the best ways that family caregivers like you can keep some balance in their life.
Many families are turning to home care providers to step in and help out when they are needed. With home care providers, seniors are always taken care of and family caregivers have time to take care of their own families and responsibilities. You’ll definitely have peace of mind when you know your aging relative is in the capable hands of a qualified home care provider.