Introduction

The responsibilities and demands of care giving, even under the best circumstances can impact on well-being of caregivers. Moreover, if the caregiver is elderly and of poor health, such situation can unfavorably affect their ability to provide sufficient care.

Spouses are the most vulnerable caregivers due to their own advancing age and prevalence of chronic illness that potentially diminished physical capacity. Their children should assume some financial responsibility and care giving role for their dependent parents.

Caregiver burnout is a result of unrelieved continuous caring for a person with chronic illness or dementia. Many exhausted caregivers never sought help because they do not realize that they are physically and emotionally drained.

Guilt

Guilt feeling that their loved one will not get satisfactory care or something unpleasant might happen discouraged elderly caregivers from accepting respite care. Caregivers must realize they are not selfish to sometimes think about their own needs and feelings first

Loss

If the person in care has dementia, loss of a secure attachment figure or a confiding companionship is felt by spousal caregivers. Loss of independence due to care giving on a 24 hours basis is also experienced by many.

Anger

Dealing with a loved one who is incapacitated can be frustrating. Elderly caregivers may hit out at their loved ones out of their own fear and frustration. The person in care might seem like a stranger. Caregiver need to manage their own anger, anger towards care receiver, at having to be the caregiver and at family members who are not helping enough.

Stress, Anxiety and Depression

If stress builds up without being dealt with, depression and anxiety would likely occur. Older caregivers are more receptive to seek help for their physical health concerns but not for symptoms of mental distress. Stress, anxiety or depression that can result from care giving is treatable conditions. Reluctance in asking and accepting help is a core hindrance in gaining crucial treatment and support.

Grief

It is easy to become overwhelmed, feel inadequate and experience burn out. Caregivers are often mourning the loss of the person ‘who used to be’. As a caregiver observed rapid deterioration in health and abilities of a loved one, a sense of loss sets in. It became apparent that the person they cared for is suffering and has a short time to live, which may trigger grieving process even before that person dies.

Coping

Some might have been forced into their role unexpectedly or unwillingly. Every caregiver copes differently. One caregiver can manage effectively whereas another becomes disheartened, unable to cope and at heightened risk for harmful health outcome. When the situation is complex and continuously changing, coping strategies directed at modifiable negative emotions are required.

Self Care

Unsatisfactory sleep can lead to serious exhaustion and reduce concentration in caregivers. Be aware of the limits to one’s own strength and endurance. Adequate sleep, exercise and nutritional diet are essential for maintaining well-being in an individual. Spirituality and religion provide comfort and meaning in life for many older people.

A caregiver’s journey is exhausting and full of sacrifices. Somehow, some considered care giving to be rewarding as they found new meaning by making a difference in their loved one’s life, even if their efforts are often unappreciated. Support and coping comes in the form of accepting offers of help from trustworthy family or friends, obtaining respite care relief, taking time off from care giving and prayers. Sharing feelings and experience with others may acquire helpful advice and alleviate caregiver burnout. Care giving responsibilities should be shared among reliable family members, even if he or she lives elsewhere.

Caregiving Tips For Family Caregiver

Emotional needs of family caregivers:

• Take time to relax daily and learn how to regulate yourself and de-stress when you start to feel overwhelmed.
• Keep a journal. Write down your thoughts and feelings. This will give you perspective and serve as a way to release strong feelings.
• Talk with someone to make sense of your situation and your feelings.
• Feed your spirit. Pray, meditate, or do another activity that makes you feel part of something greater. Try to find meaning in your life and in your role as a caregiver.
• Watch out for signs of depression and anxiety, and get professional help if needed.

Social & recreational needs of family caregivers

• Stay social. Make it a priority to visit regularly with other people. Nurture your close relationships. Don’t let yourself become isolated.
• Do things you enjoy. Laughter and joy can help keep you going when you face trials, stress, and pain.
• Maintain balance in your life. Don’t give up activities that are important to you, such as your work or your hobbies.
• Give yourself a break. Take regular breaks from caregiving, and give yourself an extended break at least once a week.
• Find a community. Join or reestablish your connection to a religious group, social club, or civic organization. The broader your support network, the better.

Physical needs of family caregivers

• Exercise regularly. Try to get in at least 30 minutes of exercise, three times per week. Exercise is one of the best ways to relieve stress and boost your energy. So get moving, even if you’re tired.
• Eat right. Well-nourished bodies are better prepared to cope with stress and get through busy days. Keep your energy up and your mind clear by eating nutritious meals at regular times throughout the day.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs. It can be tempting to turn to substances for escape when life feels overwhelming, but they can easily compromise the quality of your caregiving. Instead, try dealing with problems head on and with a clear mind.
• Get enough sleep. Aim for adequate uninterrupted sleep every night. Otherwise, your energy level, productivity, and ability to handle stress will suffer.
• Keep up with your own health care. Go to the doctor on schedule, and keep up with your own prescriptions or medical therapy. As a caregiver, you need to stay as strong and healthy as possible.