Ways to be a Healthy Caregiver

Sept. 21, 2022
ComPsych Guidance Resources

Caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s or other chronic diseases report they frequently experience high levels of stress. Caregivers need to remember to care for themselves and stay healthy. The individual receiving care benefits more from a happy and healthy caregiver than from a stressed and burned-out one.

Signs of Stress
If you feel many of these signs, check with a doctor before the stress brings on a personal health crisis.

  • Denial about the disease and its effect on the person who has been diagnosed or believe that the person is just going to get better at some point.
  • Anger at the person with the disease or anger about the fact that there is no cure.
  • Social withdrawal from friends and activities that used to make you feel good.
  • Anxiety about the future and facing another day or anxiety about having to provide a level of care you feel you cannot provide.
  • Depression breaks your spirit and your ability to cope.
  • Exhaustion makes it nearly impossible to complete the everyday tasks that need to get done.
  • Sleeplessness is caused by a never-ending list of concerns about the patient and the care needed.
  • Irritability leads to moodiness and triggers negative responses and reactions.
  • Lack of concentration makes it difficult to complete or remember familiar tasks.
  • Health problems begin to take their toll, both mentally and physically. If you cannot remember the last time you felt good, this is a sign that should raise concern.

Check out Caregiver Stress Check for a tailored list of helpful resources and other support: Caregiver Stress Test

Steps to Take

  • Get a diagnosis. Do not delay seeing a doctor if your mental or physical health is at risk.
  • Know that help is out there. Local support groups, such as the American Cancer Society or Alzheimer’s Association, can put you in touch with area services to help you provide the best care.
  • Get help from others. Seek support from family, friends, social service agencies and your faith community. Local support groups provide comfort and reassurance and can help find assistance.
  • Use a respite care service that will give you time to take a break. When you get that break, go shopping, see a movie or enjoy an uninterrupted visit with a friend.
  • Take care of yourself. Watch your diet, exercise and get plenty of rest.
  • Manage your level of stress and be aware of how stress affects your body (stomach aches, high blood pressure) and your emotions (overeating, irritability). Find ways to relax. Check in with your doctor for recommendations.
  • Accept changes. Eventually, your loved one will need more and more intensive kinds of care. Find out about the options now so you are ready for the changes as they occur.
  • Plan for the future now. See an experienced attorney to get legal and financial plans in place. Involve the patient, if possible.
  • Be realistic. The care you give does make a difference, but many behaviors cannot be controlled. Grieve the losses, but focus on positive times as they arise and enjoy good memories.
  • Give yourself credit. Do not feel guilty. You are only human and it is normal to lose patience or feel like your care may fall short sometimes. Keep in mind you are doing the best you can.

Resources

 

©2022 ComPsych ® Corporation. All rights reserved. This information is for educational purposes only. It is always important to consult with the appropriate professional on financial, medical, legal, behavioral or other issues. As you read this information, it is your responsibility to make sure that the facts and ideas apply to your situation.