Caregiver Fatigue: What Is It? Symptoms and Prevention

• What caregiver fatigue is and how to avoid it

Any caregiver may experience caregiver fatigue at any moment. Caregiver weariness, also known as caregiver fatigue, happens when a caregiver is both mentally and emotionally worn out.

The first step in preventing caregiver fatigue is recognizing its signs and symptoms. The more time passes, the more worn out the caregiver will feel. ​

Symptoms of Caregiver Fatigue

1. Spending more time alone and withdrawing from friends and family, along with a lack of ambition at work or at home
2. Missing appointments and putting off obligations
3. Excessive drinking and drug use, particularly the usage of sleeping medications, are becoming more common
4. Having issues getting to sleep or staying asleep
5. Hopelessness, alienation, helplessness, and irritation are all symptoms of depression.
6. Anger directed at the person you are caring for that may manifest as a desire to harm them

Also Read: HOW COMPANIONSHIP SERVICE CAN HELP LONELY SENIORS

Avoiding Caregiver Fatigue

Here are six recommendations for preventing caregiver fatigue:

1. Request assistance. There are numerous resources that offer psychological, physical, and monetary help to caregivers and the individual they care for. For further information, speak with your neighborhood Area Agency on Aging. Kaydailycare  supports persons who care for their loved ones at home, thereby assisting families. To discover more, get in touch with a care advisor right away.
2. Think of a respite program. The purpose of respite care is to temporarily relieve the person who regularly takes care of the patient. Look into government-sponsored programs for respite care or, if available, private solutions. Additionally, you might ask friends and family members to help out occasionally so that you can take some much-needed breaks. Consult with loving family and friends. Speak up if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Don’t assume that your friends and family will understand how you are feeling; tell them. Tell them if you need a break. Consider joining online support groups that can help you connect with other caregivers going through comparable circumstances, such as Caregiver Nation on Facebook.
3. Ensure your own wellbeing. Self-care is crucial for maintaining your health and is required if you wish to care for your loved one well. Make time for the things that will keep you energized and happy. Spend time with friends, go on a walk, listen to music, or just sit quietly.
4. Remain active. You can feel better throughout the day if you continue to be active. It protects you from being lethargic and keeps you operating at your best. Make an effort to move your body each day. You can move about and stay active by walking, dancing, or running.
5. Eat healthy foods. Eat a variety of healthy foods, including lots of fruits and vegetables, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

In particular, caregivers frequently experience caregiver fatigue. However, recognizing the symptoms of burnout, utilizing the resources at your disposal, and engaging in healthy self-care routines can all help you maintain good physical and mental health.

By assisting those who care for their loved ones at home, Kaydailycare supports families. Find out more about our caregiver coaching and support programs and how they could benefit you.