As a caregiver, it can be difficult to find enough time to care for your mom and dad, let alone yourself.
But staying healthy physically, emotionally and socially is one of the best things you can do to continue providing support for your parents. There are many options nowadays for care and caregiver support.
Have you considered arranging a short stint in respite care so you have time to yourself? Do you have a support circle to lean on when you are feeling overwhelmed? Have you looked into senior care options? There are many options, from assisted living and memory care to at-home care services.
The senior living industry has advanced and grown rapidly in recent years due to the growing senior population, providing you more opportunities than ever before.
It’s important to recognize caregiver stress early and find the support you need. If you are not taking care of yourself, it will be difficult to care for anyone else.
Signs and symptoms of caregiver stress:
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Feeling alone, isolated or deserted by others
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Gaining or losing a lot of weight
- Feeling tired most of the time
- Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Becoming easily irritated or angered
- Feeling worried or sad often
- Having headaches or body aches oftenhttp://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/caregiver-stress.html
If you are experiencing these signs and symptoms, talk to your doctor or reach out to family, friends or a local senior care center.
Join one of Eskaton’s Caregiver Support Groups. Call for Schedule.
