If you provide care for an aging adult, chances are you’ve experienced caregiver fatigue at some point. Caregiver fatigue, also known as caregiver burnout, has been on the rise during the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s officially defined as a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion and can affect caregivers’ ability to provide sufficient support to their loved ones. For this reason, it might be beneficial for the caregiver to place a loved one in a nursing home or long-term care facility.
What is caregiver fatigue?
Caregivers commonly experience burnout due to the challenge of caring for a loved one taking a toll on their physical and emotional wellbeing. Some of the symptoms of caregiver fatigue include social withdrawal, resentment towards the person they’re caring for, depression, stress, and sleepless nights. Often the caregiver can feel powerless, and this is when it’s time to seek professional help. Nursing homes or a long-term care facility can help take some of the strain off the caregiver.
Causes of caregiver fatigue
Caregivers often experience an intense strain caused by their role. They may feel that unrealistic or unreasonable expectations are requested of them. Often financial and time restraints also contribute to the long-term stress caused by caring for somebody full-time. Adapting to the role of caregiver, particularly for an elderly parent or partner, can be extremely challenging. It’s difficult to accept the new responsibilities involved and after a time your mental health can suffer.
Solutions for caregiver fatigue
Fortunately, many organizations offer resources and permanent solutions to caregiver fatigue. It’s important not to try to tackle this problem alone. Respite care services offer the caregiver times to themselves to recharge. Temporary stays in a nursing home can provide a short-term solution, or caregivers can seek professional assistance for their loved ones in their home.
If the caregiver’s relative can no longer live at home alone safely, or be cared for full-time in the community, then a nursing home is often the best option. The strain is taken off the caregiver and they can rest assured their loved one is receiving the help they need at a long term care facility. Services also often include comprehensive nursing care, personal care, full catering facilities, and social activities.
Caregiver fatigue is real and can affect both the carer’s wellbeing and their ability to be there for their loved ones. If you or anybody in your family is experiencing caregiver fatigue, it might be time to consider placing your loved one in a nursing home. At a nursing home, they will receive the assistance and companionship they need, and it will help give you peace of mind. As a caregiver, it’s important to look after your wellbeing too so you can maintain hope and positivity.
At Hancock Hall, we offer assistance with daily living in a comfortable home-like environment. If you would like more information about caregiver fatigue, and how a long term care facility could provide support to your family, get in touch today.