Being a caregiver means constantly devoting your time and energy to your loved one, leaving little time for yourself. If this goes on for too long, you could experience caregiver burnout. Taking a break from your duties is necessary from time to time. While you're away, you can ensure your loved one is in good hands with our senior companion care in Macon, GA.
How to Recognize Caregiver Burn Out
If you've never heard of or experienced caregiver burn out, you may be wondering how to recognize it. There are a few tell-tale signs, but it takes a lot of honesty and self-evaluation to notice them. Here are three signs of burn out you can watch for:
- Frequent illness. The stress of caregiving can cause a weakened immune system. If you are ill more frequently than you have been in the past, your body could be signaling to you that it needs rest.
- Loss of focus. Caregiving is a position in which you have to be frequently vigilant and present. This can make you lose interest and focus with other daily tasks, like doing the dishes. If you are making careless mistakes or getting small injuries, you could be too tired to focus on the tasks at hand.
- Unexpected anger. Stress manifests itself differently in everyone. If you find yourself lashing out at your loved one or a friend or family member without cause, it could be time for you to take a step back and relax.
Caregiver burn out is caused by the stress related to providing care for someone. This stress can lead to sleep deprivation and even anxiety or depression if it goes on for too long. It is never too early to seek help, so if you notice that you are acting or feeling differently, it's probably time to get assistance.
How Our Senior Companion Care in Macon Can Help
Our senior companion care allows family caregivers the respite they need to rest and recharge. As with any career or role in life, caregiving requires that you take time off for yourself. You can't care for your loved one if you aren't caring for yourself.
At Interim HealthCare of Macon, our experienced caregivers can step in as needed to assist with tasks like light housekeeping, meal preparation, and personal care.
Call us at (478) 394-4672 for more information on our senior companion care or to schedule your free consultation in Macon or the surrounding communities, including Warner Robins, Perry, Forsyth, Fort Valley, and Byron.
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