1 Nov 2024
SOURCE: CPF Board
Caregiving is a selfless task that requires you as a caregiver to balance your own needs with those of your loved ones. This can lead to stress, exhaustion, and may potentially compromise the quality of care you provide.
As a secondary caregiver for 10 years to his late grandmother who suffered from dementia, this writer observed how important it is for caregivers to spend time on themselves so that they can rest and recharge.
The worst thing that can happen to any caregiver is to experience caregiver burnout, which can negatively impact both your health and your ability to care for others.
Read on to learn how to take practical steps to prevent caregiver burnout while providing compassionate care for your loved ones.
The realities of being a caregiver
Caregiving comes with its unique set of challenges. Understanding these challenges is the first step in effectively tackling caregiver burnout. After all, even the most dedicated caregiver is susceptible to them.
1) Dealing with personality changes in the care recipient
One of the most challenging aspects of caregiving is to witness personality changes in your loved one. Whether caused by illness, medication, or frailties related to ageing, these changes can be hard to accept. This is especially so when you feel like you are caring for a shadow of someone you once knew.
It's important to understand that these changes are not a reflection of your abilities as a caregiver. While it can be difficult, managing your own expectations and developing a renewed sense of patience goes a long way.
2) Questioning your role as a caregiver
It's natural to sometimes question the reason behind being a primary caregiver. This can be especially common when the weight of responsibility becomes increasingly overwhelming. You might wonder if becoming a caregiver is the best care option for the recipient and perhaps a dedicated care institution like a nursing home might be better.
Recognise that these are normal thoughts. Instead of dwelling on your doubts, focus on the positive impact you are making on your loved ones' lives. Remind yourself that you're doing your best in a challenging situation and that your loved one deeply appreciates what you do, even if they might not be able to express it.
3) Balancing your sense of duty with your personal needs
Being a caregiver is a heroic act, but that doesn't mean you must always be selfless. Making self-care a priority and a habit ensures that you can sustainably provide the best care possible.
By prioritising your well-being, you're increasing your ability to care for others. Set boundaries and recognise that self-care is a core component of caregiving as well too!
4) Managing the financial strain of caregiving
We naturally want the best possible care for our loved ones. But this can lead to financial strain, especially when caregiving extends over a long period. The costs can quickly add up, from specialised equipment to dedicated treatments.
Caregiving also brings unexpected financial challenges that can create long-term impact on your own financial stability. Whether it's reducing work hours or leaving a job entirely, the trade-off between balancing your own financial security with the level of care for your loved ones can be significant.
Practical self-care tips to prevent caregiver burnout
Self-care is the best care in preventing caregiver burnout and maintaining your own well-being. Here are some practical tips:
1) Embrace the power of family support
Caregiving is a journey best shared with loved ones. You are not alone in shouldering the caregiving responsibility.
Your loved ones may be eager to help but might be unsure how. Try communicating more with them and be more open about your needs. Even small gestures, like a sibling offering to prepare meals or getting a relative to take the kids to school, can provide you with a necessary respite to breathe and recharge.
By working together with your loved ones, you might discover that family support can be a powerful source of comfort and relief in your caregiving journey.
2) Setting aside time for personal care
While it may seem selfish to prioritise yourself when caring for others, neglecting your own needs can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion.
Make sure to take stock of both your physical and mental well-being. This can include activities such as getting adequate sleep, regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and engaging in hobbies or relaxation techniques. Be sure to also attend regular health screenings to ensure that you are in the pink of health.
3) Stay socially involved and join a caregiver support group
Caregiving can feel isolating and make you feel that it’s you versus the world. However, maintaining social connections with friends and family, even through brief interactions, can provide essential emotional support and a much-needed break from caregiving duties.
Try joining caregiver support groups that bring together individuals that are navigating the caregiver journey together. These gatherings can be an outlet for you to share your story and discover new ways to navigate your personal challenges.
4) Plan for long-term financial stability
While focusing on day-to-day caregiving needs, it's important to also plan for the financial future of both you and your care recipient. Having open discussions with family members about sharing caregiving costs is a good first step.
There are various insurance schemes available to help provide financial support and relief. For instance, the Home Protection Scheme acts as a mortgage-reducing insurance, while CareShield Life provides long-term care insurance coverage.
Take active steps in preventing caregiver burnout with these self-care tips
Caregiving is a brave and often underappreciated responsibility that comes with its unique challenges.
For caregivers to provide the best care possible, it’s important to set aside time for personal care and seek support whenever possible too. As you continue your caregiving journey, be sure to recognise your own well-being to become the best caregiver you can be!
The information provided in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
