Caregiving isn’t just a job … it’s a lifestyle, and we mean that in the broadest sense possible. It often seems as if caregivers work 24/7, juggling all the needs of their loved one along with their own additional responsibilities. No wonder we call them selfless, superheroes or “angels on earth.” It’s also no wonder that more than half of caregivers report high levels of stress, chronic diseases and other physical and mental health issues.
“The caregivers aren’t caring for themselves,” says Lori Luzzo, Executive Director of Bridges® by EPOCH at Pembroke, a memory care assisted living community in Pembroke, MA. “Most, if not all, of them need a break, but so many feel guilty or anxious about taking much-needed time for themselves. The truth is, though, that you can’t be an effective caregiver if you aren’t caring for your own needs.”
Lori reminds family caregivers that professional caregivers get breaks – so why shouldn’t they? “You simply can’t do everything, and you shouldn’t feel like you have to,” Lori says. “Taking a well-deserved break is absolutely essential to your health, well-being and overall happiness.”
Signs That You Need a Break
The best time to take a break is well before you need one – but you can get so entrenched in your routine that you may not even realize you’re reaching a breaking point.
- You’re becoming more angry, irritable or upset about issues or everyday things
- You’re becoming sick more often, or you have a chronic issue that’s becoming more difficult to manage
- You can’t sleep – or you sleep too much
- You’re stepping away from social engagements because they’re too much work, or you simply don’t have time
- You’re completely exhausted all the time
All these are signs of caregiver burnout, which can lead to significant health issues if left unchecked. Burnout isn’t just bad for you – it’s bad for your loved one as well. Before you find yourself getting to that point, here are some ways you can take stock of your life and find ways to make it easier for you to take a break from caregiving.
Check out options early on.
It’s always a good idea to start doing your research before you find that you need those services right away, stat. Having time to gather your information will make it easier for you to take a break when you need it – and will keep you from making a rushed, emotionally based decision. If you don’t know where to start, reach out to your local Area Agency on Aging to see what resources are available in the community to help you out.
Allow yourself to feel guilty – for a little bit.
Guilt is a constant companion for many caregivers – but it shouldn’t stop you from living your life. Yes, you may feel guilty for taking time for yourself. Yes, you may wish you could do more with less. But even though we call you a superhero, remember you’re not superhuman. Taking regular breaks isn’t selfish – you’re doing what you need to do in order to provide the best care for your loved one.
Beg for forgiveness; don’t ask permission.
Of course, you don’t want to leave your loved one without proper assistance. But this is one situation where they don’t get to say yes or no to you taking a break. This can be difficult depending on your loved one’s health and cognitive state, but remember that you’re making a decision that will help you – and thus, them – have the best caregiving experience possible.
Consider hiring outside help.
Having friends and family help out once in a while is fine, but if you really need a break, it may be easier, smoother and more comforting to hire a paid caregiver from time to time. There are many agencies that offer in-home caregivers and companions. It comes at a cost, but you’ll be getting professional help from someone who is trained to help your loved one in the fullest way possible.
Take small breaks as much as possible.
Can’t get away for a weekend? Consider taking a few hours one day, or even just 30 minutes before you go to bed. It may not seem like it’s even worth the trouble, but it’s been proven that even tiny breaks can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and mental health, and help caregivers live a higher quality of life.
Consider a respite stay.
Many senior living communities offer “respite stays,” where your senior adult can stay at the community for a short amount of time when you need an extended break. This is an excellent solution if you have to go out of town, have a medical procedure or just need a vacation for yourself. Staying at a community can be highly enjoyable for your loved one, thanks to the activities and socialization opportunities that are there.
Expert, Life-Enriching Memory Care
Bridges® by EPOCH at Pembroke provides memory care assisted living that is comfortable, positive, safe and engaging. Exclusively dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, our community promotes a wellness-focused lifestyle that emphasizes dignity and individual preferences. Our memory care professionals receive specialized, ongoing training designed to help residents maximize their independence in a secure, calm environment – making a positive impact on the lives of our residents.
Inspiring Programs for All Stages
Bridges® by EPOCH at Pembroke’s services are designed to recognize and adapt to the unique challenges and individuality of each resident while ensuring comfort and safety. We believe in a full-service approach to care and provide personalized attention and programming for residents in every stage of memory loss.
Purposefully Designed Community
Within a beautiful residential design, Bridges® by EPOCH at Pembroke provides everything residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia need to enjoy comfort, familiarity and security. Soft colors, directional cues and aromatherapy create a soothing and secure environment where residents feel at home.
Bridges® by EPOCH is New England’s largest stand-alone memory care assisted living provider.
Contact us today to learn more.