Many often don’t take into account a caregivers health when it comes to taking care of a loved one at home. The impact of waiting too long for outside help can cause many physical and mental health issues for caregivers. Therefore, caregivers need to monitor their overall health and learn when it is time to step aside and leave the care of their loved ones to other health professionals.
Obviously, the cost of senior citizen health care is on the rise each month. For this reason, more family members are opting to take over the responsibilities of the overall care of their parents, grandparents or other family members. This is not only a sound financial move for many families; it’s also the right option to choose morally, as well.
Nonetheless, when it comes down to a senior’s health and well being, nothing could be more detrimental than allowing yourself to become so mentally and physically exhausted where you can no longer look after yourself, much less your loved one.
The Impact of Waiting Too Long for Outside Help for a Caregiver
In this article, we will discuss the impact of waiting too long for outside help in care giving. The more you recognize the warning signs; the better you will be able to concentrate on keeping good health.
Here are some signs that being a caregiver is too much for you to handle:
* Overwhelmed with Stress – Dealing with daily stress is one of the most important factors of care giving. You will not only need to address your loved one’s health, but you will also be in charge of dealing with your health, too. There are many signs of stress, such as headache, loss of sleep, chest pain, stomachaches and other body pain.
Stress can be a killer, too. It can raise your blood pressure while elevating the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Always take stress seriously, and if you are experiencing overwhelming stress, you should contact your physician immediately for help.
* Burnout – We have all felt burnout at one time in our lives. Whether it was a job we hated, working out too much, or even a relationship with someone. There can come a point where you feel you just can’t deal with taking care of your loved one anymore. If it ever gets to that point, you need to discuss other options with your family and other professionals.
* Weakening of Your Mental Health – Feelings of isolation, anxiety, problems with your memory and even depression are just some of the mental issues that can affect a senior caregiver’s health. Don’t take these signs lightly.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Health as a Caregiver
* Rest – Probably the best advice it to make sure your body is getting enough rest. Getting enough sleep and resting during the day can help prevent many physical and mental health issues. When your body gets enough rest, it helps keep your immune system in check.
* Eat the Right Foods – Eating healthy and well-balanced meals will help fuel your body and give you the strength you need to make it through the day. Junk foods do just the opposite. You can gain weight and obtain diseases.
* Get Enough Exercise – Exercise makes your body stronger. It keeps many diseases at bay, and it makes you feel years younger. Try to exercise at least three times a week for at least 45 minutes for the best results. Mix cardiovascular exercises with some strength exercises.
* See Your Doctor – When something isn’t feeling right for a longer period of time and doesn’t seem to be getting better, go and see your doctor. Say what you are feeling and experiencing in your life and your physician can better diagnose what might be wrong with you.
*Seek Outside Help – At Applewood Our House our focus is not on just our residents health, but their families health as well. Whether you need respite care and some time away from caregiving duties, or need the full time help of a loving, committed, caring team, all of us at Applewood Our House are here to make the sometimes difficult transitions of aging easier.
Senior Caregivers Health – Conclusion
When dealing with a senior who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, you need to trust your own instinct and listen to what your body is telling you. If you are feeling overwhelmed and there does not seem to be a light at the end of the tunnel, your best option is to seek support from professional caregivers. There might come a time when you simply cannot continue to function normally in your life if you are caring for an extremely sick loved one.
Once you recognize the impact of waiting too long for outside help; you can continue to maintain good health, and make sure that your senior family member is getting the necessary care that they deserve. Don’t hesitate to find professional caregivers when they are truly needed.
Applewood Our House is dedicated to loving long term care of senior citizens, and we do it in small assisted living homes in Lakewood and Golden, Colorado. We can provide your family member a familiar surrounding, love, caring ,support and safety and allow you to feel comfortable knowing that your loved one is in good hands.
