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1. A Recent Hospitalization

After being discharged from the hospital, certain medical conditions - such as a recent stroke or broken bones from a fall - may lead to chronic health conditions that require readmission to the hospital, or 24-hour care.

2. A Greater Sense of Seclusion

If an elderly relative was once outgoing, but no longer wishes to be social or go out in public, this could be a sign of depression. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), depression affects 15-20% of older adults. Older adults are at risk of misdiagnosis and lack of treatment because symptoms can also be mistakenly attributed to other illnesses, medications, or life changes.

3. A Behavioral Personality Change

The changes that many older adults experience in the aging process can lead to a loss of self-esteem and they may lose a clear image of who they are at this time in their lives. An elderly relative who exhibits major changes in personality - such as a former extrovert who has become socially isolated, or an easygoing person who exhibits swearing, aggressive behavior, hitting, crying, or frustration - could need ongoing monitoring and treatment provided by elder care professionals.

4. A Struggle with Medications

For some older adults, medications can be the key to good or improved health. But if they skip a dose or mistakenly take too much, the results can be deadly. Medication problems are widespread. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, 55% of older adults are "non-compliant" with their prescription drug orders, meaning they don't take the medication according to the doctor's orders.

An elderly person who cannot remember the dosages and times to take medications, or confuses different prescriptions, may need the assistance of elder care professionals who can manage their prescriptions and dosages.

5. A Recent Fall

Perhaps more than other symptoms, a recent fall may indicate that an elderly person's functional ability is becoming compromised, and much more dependent rather than independent. More than one-third of older adults with minor head trauma caused by a fall will need to return to the emergency room within 90 days after discharge, claims a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society. According to date from the CDC, roughly 2.5 million older adults are sent to emergency departments nationwide due to injuries sustained from falls.

6. An Eating Issue or a Change in Weight

Elder care professionals can determine whether an elderly person's weight loss or lack of interest in food results from depression or emotional problems - or simpler problems such as tooth or digestive pain. Meanwhile, weight gain can be a risk factor for disability in older adults.

7. Isolation

Living alone, health problems and disability, sensory impairment such as hearing loss, and major life events such as loss of a spouse have all been identified as risk factors for social isolation and loneliness. I an elderly person suddenly shows little interest in social activities, it could be a sign of underlying medical condition.

8. Constant Pain

Chronic pain becomes increasingly prevalent as we age. In many cases, the lack of ability to manage pain properly by themselves signals the need for more all-inclusive care.

9. Poor Hygiene

An elderly person who suddenly exhibits poor hygiene and a lack of hygiene habits can be suffering from depression, dementia, or impaired mental status - and need diagnosis and monitoring by health professionals.

10. You are Stressed

If you are stressed out as a caregiver and find yourself snapping at people, or feeling frustrated, overwhelmed and anxious, then you may need to ask assistance from elder care professionals who have the time and training to deal with inherent challenges in elder health care.

Do any of these factors feel familiar to you?

Help is available!

It can be difficult to come to terms with the fact that a loved one may need long-term care. But take heart! There are programs that can help ease your burden, and that can help your loved one continue to live a healthier and fulfilled life in the comfort of their home and familiarity of their community.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE is committed to providing accurate health-related information to help individuals live well, stay healthy and make well-informed healthcare decisions. Information in this material is strictly educational. We recommend that users consult with a medical provider regarding their or their loved one's care.

This blog post was originally published in 2018 (H3329_2018_WEB_BLOG_M Approved 09252018), and has been updated with the latest statistical data in 2024. For educational purposes only.
Last updated November 8, 2024

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So far, we’ve discussed the stress and burnout you may feel as a caregiver and explored some strategies to find balance in caregiving. Now we want to take a moment to focus on you, caregiver! Being a caregiver can be overwhelming, and it’s vital to make space for your own health and happiness.

Take Time for Your Own Health

Although you’re invested in your loved one’s health, it’s also important to not make your situation worse with avoidable health woes.

Don’t forget your doctor visits. It’s easy to forget about your own health when you’re busy with a loved one’s care. Don’t skip check-ups or medical appointments. You need to be healthy in order to take good care of your family member.

Exercise. When you’re stressed and tired, you probably would prefer napping vs. working out. But if you exercise, you’ll feel better afterwards. Exercise is a powerful stress reliever and mood enhancer. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes on most days—break it up into three 10-minute sessions if that’s easier. Regular exercise will help boost your energy level and fight fatigue.

Meditate and/or Pray. A daily relaxation, visualization or meditation practice can help you relieve stress and boost feelings of joy and well-being. Try yoga, deep breathing, or mindfulness meditation. Even a few minutes in the middle of an overwhelming day can help you feel more centered. If you believe in a higher power, take a few moments to pray and connect.

Eat well. Fuel your body with fresh fruit, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats such as fish, nuts, and olive oil.

Limit sugar, caffeine and alcohol. These may feel and taste good in the short run, but will quickly crash you.

Rest up. Most people need more sleep than they think they do—8 hours is the norm. When you get less, your mood, energy, productivity, and ability to handle stress will suffer.

Take Time to Refresh and Recharge

As a busy caregiver, leisure time may seem like a pipedream. But it’s crucial to give yourself permission to rest and to do things that you enjoy on a daily basis. When you replenish yourself, you’ll have more to give to others.

Stay connected. Don’t let your friendships get lost in the shuffle of your demanding schedule. These relationships will help sustain you and brighten your outlook. If it’s difficult to leave the house, invite friends over to visit with you over coffee, drinks, or dinner.

Pursue joy. Make regular time for things that bring you happiness, whether it’s reading, gardening, playing an instrument,  listening to music, or watching the game.

Up your focus with down time. If you’re not regularly taking time-off to de-stress and recharge your batteries, you’ll end up getting less done in the long run. Paradoxically, a break will likely make you feel more energetic and focused, so you’ll quickly make up for your down time.

Pamper yourself. Small luxuries can go a long way. Light candles and take a long bath. Ask your spouse for a back rub. Get a manicure. Buy fresh flowers for your home. Do something that makes you feel special.

Make yourself laugh. Laughter is an excellent antidote to stress—and a little goes a long way. Read a funny book, watch a your favorite comedian or sitcom, or call a friend who makes you laugh.

Get outside. Seek out friends, family, and respite care providers to step in with caregiving so you can have some time away from the home.

You have a tough job, caregiver, but we know that you know how rewarding it can be. Consider joining our mailing list to receive our free e-book explaining the PACE program to use yourself or give to another caregiver in your life. We’ll be blogging again soon about more resources. Until next time!

H3329_2019_Overwhelm3 Approved 03052019
Last updated February 11, 2019

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In part one of this this series, we looked at the signs of stress and burnout. Here, we offer tips on achieving balance, and even thriving, as a caregiver. If these tips resonate with you or make you think of another caregiver who could use support, consider sharing this resource with them.

How to Affirm Yourself and Get Support

Reframing your perspective and leaning on others for support are vital to affirming your caregiving choices and struggles.

More power to you. Feeling powerless is the number one contributor to burnout and depression. And it’s an easy trap to fall into as a caregiver, especially if you feel stuck in a role you didn’t expect or helpless to change things for the better. But no matter the situation, know that you aren’t powerless. This is especially true when it comes to your state of mind. You can’t always get the extra time, money, or assistance you’d like, but you can always cultivate more happiness and hope.

Embrace your role. Acknowledge that, despite any resentments or burdens you feel, you have made a conscious choice to provide care. Focus on the positive reasons behind that choice. Perhaps you are repaying your parent for the care they gave you growing up. Or maybe it’s because of your values or the example you want to set for your children. These deep, meaningful motivations can help sustain you through tough times.

But don’t let it take over your entire existence. Invest in things that give you meaning and purpose—whether it’s your family, your career, a favorite hobby, or your spirituality and belief system.

Try the following tips to ease your burden and feel more balanced:

Focus on what you can control. You can’t wish your mother’s Alzheimer’s away or force your brother to do his part. Rather than stressing out over things beyond your control, focus on how you choose to react to problems.

Imagine how your loved one would respond if they were healthy. If they weren’t disabled or preoccupied with illness or pain, how would your loved one feel about the care you’re providing? Remind yourself that the person would express more gratitude if they were able.

Celebrate the small victories. If you start to feel discouraged, remind yourself that all your efforts matter. You don’t have to cure your loved one’s illness to make a difference. Don’t underestimate the importance of making your loved one feel more safe, comfortable, and loved!

Find ways to acknowledge and reward yourself. Remind yourself of the good you’re doing. If you need something more concrete, try making a list of all the ways your caregiving is making a positive difference. Review the list when you start to feel low.

Get the appreciation you need. Feeling appreciated can go a long way towards managing a stressful situation, and enjoying life more. Studies show that caregivers who feel appreciated experience greater physical and emotional health. Believe it or not, caregiving actually makes them happier and healthier, despite its demands.

Seek support from family members and friends. Positive reinforcement doesn’t have to come from the person you’re caring for. Remember that when you’re feeling unappreciated, friends and family will listen to you and acknowledge your efforts.

How to Ask For Help

Taking on all of the responsibilities of caregiving without regular breaks or assistance is a surefire recipe for burnout. Don’t try to do it all alone.

Just say “yes.” Don’t be shy about accepting help. Let people feel good about supporting you. Develop a list of of small tasks that others could easily take care of, such as picking up groceries or driving your loved one to an appointment. Have it ready when someone offers to help you.

Look into respite care. Enlist friends and family who live near you to run errands, bring a hot meal, or watch your loved one so you can take a well-deserved break. In-home services can also be provided by volunteers or paid help, either occasionally or on a regular basis. You can also explore out-of-home respite programs such as adult day care centers and nursing homes.

Speak up. Don’t expect friends and family members to automatically know what you need or how you’re feeling. Be up front about what’s going on with you and the person you’re caring for. If you have concerns or thoughts, express them. People often make incorrect assumptions, and can be poor mind-readers.

Delegate. Involve as many family members as possible. Even someone who lives far away may be able to help. Also, try divvying up caregiving tasks. One person can oversee medical issues, another can look after finances, and another with manage groceries and errands, for example.

Communicate. Ask a family member, friend, or volunteer from your church or senior center to call you on a set basis. This person can help you spread status updates and coordinate with other family members.

Lose (some) control. Managing is one thing; trying to control every aspect of care is another. People will be less likely to help if you micromanage, give orders, or insist on only doing things your way.

Ultimately, the most important element of finding balance is having support!

A caregiver support group is a great way to share your troubles and find people who are navigating similar experiences. If you can't leave the house, many Internet groups are also available. To find a community support group, look online, ask your doctor or hospital, or call a local organization that specializes in your loved one’s health problem. To find an Internet support group, visit the websites of organizations dedicated to your loved one’s health issue.

Our next blog will focus on you, caregiver, and how to make space for your own health and happiness while caregiving.

H3329_2019_Overwhelm2 Approved 03052019
Last updated February 11, 2019

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No matter how strong you are, caregiving can be overwhelming. Caring for an ill or older loved one can have a huge impact: on your health, relationships, and state of mind. This can eventually lead to burnout.

This is part one of our series on Overcoming Overwhelm: Tips to Avoid Caregiver Stress & Burnout. Below, we explore signs that you may be stressed and burnt out, as well as the importance of caring for yourself. In part two, we’ll offer tips on achieving balance by refreshing and recharging yourself—for both and your loved one’s sake. In part three, we’ll cover some additional strategies for self care.

Care for Your Loved One, Care for Yourself

Without the physical, emotional, and community support you need, the demands of caregiving can leave you vulnerable to depression, anxiety, and burnout. And when you get to that point, both you and the person you’re caring for suffer. No matter your stress level or situation, there are plenty of strategies to ease your stress levels, regain your balance, and start to feel positive again.

If you’re in a state of burnout, caregiving is no longer a healthy option for you or the person you’re caring for, so it’s important to watch for the warning signs. By learning to recognize the signs of caregiver stress, you can take steps to get the help that you need.

Do Any of These Signs Feel Familiar?

Check out part two, where we’ll offer tips on how to restore balance and find and joy in caregiving. We’ll touch on developing a supportive community, reframing your perspective, and ways to seek the affirmation and help that keeps you going. Then in part three we’ll focus on you, the caregiver. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey!

H3329_2019_Overwhelm1 Approved 03052019
Last updated February 11, 2019