Saving Yourself from Caregiver Burnout
Five Practical Tips to Avoid the Common Pitfalls of Caregiving
Jul 22, 2009
As the population ages, there is a growing need for caregivers, either those who have chosen it as a profession, or those who have been thrust into the role due to an aging spouse, parent or loved one. Whatever the case, there are five specific things that can be done to avoid caregiver burnout.
Caregivers Need Time for Hobbies
Whether it’s every day, every other day or weekly, every caregiver must block out time for themselves and not let anything get in the way! Current interests will determine how to use this time. Shop, read, go for a walk, exercise, or enjoy a hobby. Do not abandon former interests. Decide what it is that provides the highest level of motivation and excitement and then do it regularly.
Eat Right to Maintain High Energy
A balanced diet can increase energy and functionality. Caregivers must consistently maintain high levels of energy. Maintaining that balance will assist in keeping both mind and body functioning at the highest level. It’s very easy to overlook this tip and it’s very easy to see the impact a poor diet can have on overall well-being.
Sleep Equals Productivity
According to the National Institutes of Health the average adult requires seven to nine hours of sleep in order to function at the highest, most productive level throughout the day. Getting enough sleep helps the mind process information better, resulting in a better quality of life.
Stay Connected to Family and Friends
Similar to a stay-at-home mom raising children under the age of five, being a full time caregiver can lead to tremendous isolation. Don’t allow it! Schedule time to talk with friends either on the phone or in-person. Let them know that talking only about a caregiving situation may not always be at the top of the list. Focus on other interests and stay involved in them.
Connect with other Caregivers
Find local support groups and online discussion boards to relate to and talk with people who do know how challenging caregiving can be. It’s important to hear their stories so lonliness and isolation do not set in. Many caregivers have found that helping others has allowed them to successfully help themselves. Either way, it’s a win-win situation, so don’t discount searching out these people.
If it’s a challenge to leave the house to meet with a support group in-person, start a blog! It’s simple and it is a great venting tool. Use the blog to chronicle the days spent as a caregiver or to simply vent. Blogging is free, so give it a try.
These five practical tips are meant to be simple in order to incorporate them quickly and easily into any current situation. Implementing them into a daily routine will insure many positive and productive caregiving days.
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