Envision how it would feel to awaken in a strange location, not being able to remember how you got there or even who you are. Complete disorientation rapidly turns into fear and anger, and you may now discover yourself yelling at the unknown person positioned beside your bed, talking to you in a quiet voice.
This scenario paints a frightening and sadly correct representation of a person with dementia’s reality. Now envision standing before a person you love, and having that person view you with no recognition at all. Every single day your heart breaks a bit more, but you continue through the pain and go on with your caregiving obligations for your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. You may even be experiencing Alzheimer’s caregiver burnout.
Based on a recent report from the Alzheimer’s Association, an overwhelming 17.7 billion hours of care are supplied by family caregivers every year to those with Alzheimer’s. With the continual emotional strain that caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can result in, it is without a doubt one of the most stressful kinds of care provision. Family caregivers have several issues that contribute to their level of stress, including problems with “letting go” of the person affected by the disease; feeling guilty when contemplating nursing home placement; or fear of seeming vulnerable and inadequate if outside help is required.
Without question, these statistics outline a critical need for chronic and long-term caregiver respite care. Not only that, but respite is needed more than once or twice a year to be truly beneficial. Family caregivers need to know that support is not only helpful but essential, and they need to take breaks and engage in a life of their own. Devoting a life exclusively to caring for someone else can actually cause great harm to both people’s lives. Family caregivers who allow themselves ongoing respite feel rejuvenated and better able to provide the best care. And those who do not are at risk for caregiver burnout.
Call in some caregiving reinforcements if you notice the warning signs of Alzheimer’s caregiver burnout, including:
- Elevated stress and tension
- Debilitating depression
- Prolonged anxiety, guilt, or anger
- Diminished overall life satisfaction
- Relationship problems and social isolation
- Lower immunity and greater need for health care services
- Elevated use of medicines, alcohol, or drugs
If any of these red flags resonate with you, reach out to Compassionate Care Home Health Services online or at 877.308.1212. We’ll provide a free in-home assessment, and create a personalized dementia support care plan for your loved one, allowing you a much-needed chance to recharge. Partnering with the leaders in dementia care in Saginaw and other nearby communities can give you the peace of mind you deserve.