If you’re providing care to an aging loved one, you know the dedication and physical dexterity the job requires, but you may not be aware of the subtle toll it can take on your own health and wellbeing. Obvious symptoms of being stressed as a caregiver include fatigue and isolation, but other signs are more subtle and disturbing. Here are a few signs of caregiver stress you may not have even noticed.
1. Difficulty Sleeping
You probably have less time to rest these days, but do you have difficulty falling asleep even when you get the chance? Do you feel tired when you wake up? Lack of sleep leads to fatigue, but it also has far-reaching effects on emotional and physical health. Chances are you’re more vulnerable to illnesses and depression as well.
Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you’re caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide respite care. Orlando families who want to prevent burnout can turn to Prestige Home Care Orlando. One of our professional caregivers can assist your loved one at home while you take a nap, go to work, run errands, or go on vacation.
2. Lack of Interest in Favorite Activities
Granted, you’ve been too busy for many of your old pastimes, but have you lost interest in the things you used to enjoy? Do the things you looked forward to now seem like they’re more trouble than they’re worth? Did you stop spending time with friends because you didn’t have time, and now you’ve lost touch with them? Do you feel isolated or overwhelmed? These feelings can affect your emotional and physical health.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your caregiving responsibilities, you don’t have to manage everything on your own. Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted elder care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Prestige Home Care Orlando is here to help.
3. Sudden Mood Swings
Do you get frustrated or angry sometimes? If you’re like most caregivers, you were thrown into your new role without much time for preparation or education. It’s only natural to have feelings of guilt or resentment. The important thing is to find a good listener or a support group where you can share your feelings safely and openly.
Although you’re shouldering most of the responsibility for caring for your loved one, it’s equally important to recognize your limits and let other people help you. It’s easy to lose perspective when you have unrealistic expectations of what you or anyone else can do.
If you’re experiencing caregiver stress, consider looking for a professional caregiver who’s compassionate, reliable, and experienced in senior home care. One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide senior home care. Windermere families can turn to Prestige Home Care Orlando for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour live-in care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties. Call us at (407) 604-0506 to create a customized in-home care plan.