There is a positive side to caregiving, and there can also be a downside. When you are managing the latter, you may experience negative emotions such as anger and doubt. This doesn’t mean you have to give up caregiving. Instead, you need to learn how to manage these emotions going forward. Here are some of the most common emotions family caregivers experience.
Envy
Seeing other people living their lives while you are caring for an aging parent may be difficult at times. You will think about the things you have given up, such as free time with friends, time to spend with your children, or the ability to follow through with your goals, which may lead to jealousy and envy. Instead of being envious of others, find a way to make time for your own needs and personal goals. Enlist the help of other siblings when it pertains to your elderly loved one’s care. You can also use respite care services when you go watch your child’s soccer game, attend a community event with friends, or conduct research for upcoming projects.
Consider hiring a professional in-home caregiver if you need a break to relax and let go of negative emotions. Although it may be challenging to find reliable, highly rated home care, Prestige Home Care, families can turn to Prestige Home Care. Our respite and live-in caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with a wide array of important tasks, including cooking, bathing, light housekeeping, and exercise.
Lack of Appreciation
There will be some days your hard work as a caregiver goes unnoticed by family, close friends, and your loved one. They may forget how much you sacrifice as a family caregiver, and this lack of appreciation could cause you to feel undervalued and sad. Instead of letting it get to you emotionally and mentally, take some time to praise yourself. When your loved one responds well to treatment, reward yourself by going to dinner or the movies, or treat yourself to a shopping spree. The objective is to applaud your hard work from time to time instead of waiting for someone else to do it.
Disgust
You may not be comfortable with the intimate side of caregiving, which is why you should ask others to step in and help with feeding, bathing, and grooming your loved one. You can also hire a caregiver to come in on an as-needed basis. Be up front with your family before accepting this role, and explain what your limits are so you can find the best solution when it pertains to this side of caregiving.
Families who need help caring for a senior loved one can turn to Prestige Home Care, a leading provider of Windermere elderly care. Services available in our customizable care plans include meal prep, mental and social stimulation, assistance with personal hygiene tasks, and much more.
Exhaustion
Working on a full or part-time basis, caring for your loved one, and taking care of your own home could prevent you from getting the rest you need. Regardless of how much work you have during the day, you need to take frequent breaks to rest and relax. It is also important to get at least eight hours of sleep each night. Failing to get adequate rest can lead to exhaustion, as well as other health issues. Develop a schedule that includes breaks and regular time off. Delegate duties to other family members, ensuring everyone is contributing to the responsibilities associated with caregiving, so you can get plenty of rest, take extended time off, and prevent exhaustion.
Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you are caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide respite care. Altamonte Springs families who want to avoid burnout can turn to Prestige Home Care. 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. Whether your loved one needs minor help with daily tasks or extensive 24-hour care, give us a call at (407) 232-7155 today.