Caregiver stress is a very real problem. With the population living to an even older age, it is a reality for many people. It can lead to physical, mental, and even emotional problems. There is help available for those who need it.
A caregiver is anyone who provides help to someone who cannot function on their own to do regular daily tasks. Most are unpaid and are related to the person for whom they give care. It is estimated that at least forty-five million people are functioning as caregivers today, with some saying it may be several million more. It usually involves taking care of an elderly family member, but it can also be a parent taking care of a disabled child.
It is believed that at some point in almost all of our lives, we will face this responsibility. At the present time, a large majority are women. Many of these have an outside job as well as their job as caregiver. Those who have an outside job must often make adjustments to their work schedules to accommodate the needs of their loved one. Some have to resort to taking unpaid leave to help alleviate some of their stress.
This job can obviously lead to much strain for the caregivers. Many report feeling emotions like guilt, frustration, and anger. Their social lives often suffer. They often feel exhausted and overwhelmed by the situation,
One negative outcome is that those who take care of others for an extended period of time are likely to eventually suffer serious medical issues of their own. They are much more likely to suffer problems like depression and heart disease. When they do become ill, they seem to take longer to recuperate.
Solutions are available for these stress issues. It is often quite helpful to talk to either a psychologist or a counselor. Also seek advice from your own primary medical provider. Many medical offices now offer training classes that teach how to care for patients with specific medical issues like dementia. Always take help from others when it is offered. You may feel like you are responsible for everything, but this does not have to be the case. Make a list of priorities and set realistic goals for yourself. When appropriate, discuss your situation with other family members. You may find that they are more than willing to lend a helping hand. Be sure to set aside some time just for you. Keep in touch with friends. Only by taking care of yourself, can you be at your best to help someone else.
There are many rewards that come with this responsibility. Most caregivers feel needed and feel that they are giving back to the one they love. It also seems to help them have a stronger relationship with their loved one.
Caregiver stress can have a big impact on a person. However, if you check in your community and state, you may find that there are several agencies that can give both you and the one you care for some necessary aid. Go to your local Area Agency on Aging. They have many resources available. Also consider things like respite care or adult day care to make your own life a little less stressful. Do not be afraid to take advantages of these resources.
A caregiver is anyone who provides help to someone who cannot function on their own to do regular daily tasks. Most are unpaid and are related to the person for whom they give care. It is estimated that at least forty-five million people are functioning as caregivers today, with some saying it may be several million more. It usually involves taking care of an elderly family member, but it can also be a parent taking care of a disabled child.
It is believed that at some point in almost all of our lives, we will face this responsibility. At the present time, a large majority are women. Many of these have an outside job as well as their job as caregiver. Those who have an outside job must often make adjustments to their work schedules to accommodate the needs of their loved one. Some have to resort to taking unpaid leave to help alleviate some of their stress.
This job can obviously lead to much strain for the caregivers. Many report feeling emotions like guilt, frustration, and anger. Their social lives often suffer. They often feel exhausted and overwhelmed by the situation,
One negative outcome is that those who take care of others for an extended period of time are likely to eventually suffer serious medical issues of their own. They are much more likely to suffer problems like depression and heart disease. When they do become ill, they seem to take longer to recuperate.
Solutions are available for these stress issues. It is often quite helpful to talk to either a psychologist or a counselor. Also seek advice from your own primary medical provider. Many medical offices now offer training classes that teach how to care for patients with specific medical issues like dementia. Always take help from others when it is offered. You may feel like you are responsible for everything, but this does not have to be the case. Make a list of priorities and set realistic goals for yourself. When appropriate, discuss your situation with other family members. You may find that they are more than willing to lend a helping hand. Be sure to set aside some time just for you. Keep in touch with friends. Only by taking care of yourself, can you be at your best to help someone else.
There are many rewards that come with this responsibility. Most caregivers feel needed and feel that they are giving back to the one they love. It also seems to help them have a stronger relationship with their loved one.
Caregiver stress can have a big impact on a person. However, if you check in your community and state, you may find that there are several agencies that can give both you and the one you care for some necessary aid. Go to your local Area Agency on Aging. They have many resources available. Also consider things like respite care or adult day care to make your own life a little less stressful. Do not be afraid to take advantages of these resources.
About the Author:
You can visit the website www.counseling-monterey.com for more helpful information about Some Ways To Deal With Caregiver Stress
No comments:
Post a Comment