Family caregivers have a higher than average risk of developing caregiver burnout, which is a serious health issue that is brought on by chronic stress and via neglecting beneficial self-care activities. Family caregivers have a lot of responsibilities when it comes to looking out for the welfare of their aging relatives. Often, these daily duties are so much that family caregivers can’t find any time for themselves. With caregiver burnout, family members jeopardize their physical and mental health.
Fortunately, there are a few ways that family caregivers can ease their chronic stress and avoid developing caregiver burnout.
Develop Healthy Habits, No Matter How Busy
Even the busiest family caregiver can find some time to develop healthy habits and focus on self-care to alleviate some of their stress. The first step is to eat healthy and get as much restful sleep as possible. Exercise is another important way to alleviate stress. Family caregivers don’t even have to leave the house to exercise, as there are DVD’s or streaming services where they can do aerobic activities, yoga, tai chi and more.
Other healthy habits to practice that alleviate stress when caring for an aging family member include avoiding alcohol and drugs, quitting smoking, and practicing meditation. Taking care of their own grooming and hygiene is also important for self-esteem. Family caregivers also need to keep in touch with other family members and friends to stay as social as possible. The biggest problem with doing all of this is that often, family caregivers are so busy that their own needs take a backseat to the needs of their elderly loved one. Hiring an elder care provider is one of the best ways to find respite from senior care.
How Elder Care Providers Can Help
Elder care providers are professionals that family caregivers can hire to come into the home and assist the aging adult when they need it. Many seniors who rely on family caregivers can also use the help of an elder care provider for those daily tasks they simply cannot manage on their own. Family caregivers can enjoy peace of mind knowing their elderly relative is in the capable care of an experienced elder care provider. This allows the family caregiver to leave for a while and pursue the things they need to in order to avoid caregiver burnout.
Elder care providers can be scheduled to visit the senior regularly so that family caregivers can make plans during that time. In addition to providing companionship and supervision, elder care providers can also help with housework, meal preparation and laundry. Elderly adults who need help with hygiene, dressing, and grooming can also rely on the elder care provider as needed, depending on their mobility levels. For many families, hiring an elder care provider is the answer to avoiding caregiver burnout.
If you or a loved one are in need of Elder Care Services in Easton PA or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Extended Family Care of Allentown. Call today at (610) 200-6097.
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