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Being a caregiver for an elderly parent or relative, or anyone who suffers health problems, can be exhausting.
The Healthline website offers these tips for avoiding burnout:
• Go one day at a time. Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed by the big picture. Focus on what you have to do today for yourself and your loved one without worrying about the future.
• Give yourself some “me time.” Schedule your day so you have at least an hour or two doing something you enjoy. Exercising, reading, talking a walk, or bingeing your favorite TV show can provide a much-needed break.
• Manage your stress. Practice deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to control your stress levels. Exercise is a good strategy, too. Consider seeing a therapist or joining a support group.
If a friend seems at risk of burning out from his or her caregiving duties, these steps can help:
• Listen. Instead of offering advice, just listen when the person wants to talk. An empathetic ear can do wonders.
• Stay in touch. Many caregivers feel isolated. Make a point of checking in as often as you can.
• Learn about conditions. Do some research into whatever issues the caregiver’s loved one is facing — dementia, disability, disease, or whatever. This will help you understand the caregiver’s situation better so you can offer the support he or she seeks.
• Offer your time. Give the caregiver a few hours off from his or her duties. Volunteer to handle doctor’s appointments, help with cooking and housekeeping, take care of the kids, or whatever he or she needs so the caregiver can take a break.
• Give a gift card. A card for a movie or even a cup of coffee can nudge the caregiver into doing something fun.
• Support research. Donating to an organization that does research or spreads awareness about the loved one’s condition shows that you care.