When someone takes on the responsibility of being the primary caregiver for an elderly loved one, they face challenges all year long. But the job of a caregiver is especially difficult during December, when shopping, traveling, and other preparations for the holidays make for an extra-busy schedule.
For caregivers and those they care for, this holiday preoccupation is more serious than it sounds. A recent study appearing in the medical journal Circulation found that Americans are more likely to die on Christmas Day, the day after Christmas, and on New Year's Day than on any other day of the year.
According to lead researcher David Phillips, the hectic holiday schedule makes caregivers more likely to have an “I’ll take care of this problem later” attitude -- a dangerous mentality to have, especially in the elderly.
The study makes one thing very clear: seasonal stress, combined with the responsibilities of tending to a loved one, can overwhelm some caregivers.
Please read below to learn some tips on how to keep caregivers -- and the people they watch over -- safe this year. Your actions just might save a life.
- Create a bigger support network
Better support networks make a dramatic difference in a caregiver’s outlook. David Weimer, co-author of a study on Alzheimer’s disease, says that stronger caregiver support networks, combined with earlier diagnosis, could save billions of dollars nationwide in long-term care costs.
Often, friends and family members don’t realize the strain that being a primary caregiver places on someone. They may be very willing to pitch in and offer their help -- if only the caregiver would ask.
There’s a tendency for primary caregivers to feel that they’re alone in their responsibilities. By overcoming that feeling and reaching out to others for help, a caregiver can reclaim some time and lead a healthier, more balanced life.
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Stick to a healthy routine that’s not all caregiving, all the time
Relaxation or leisure time isn’t just a luxury for a caregiver -- it’s essential for mental health and physical well-being, leading to a more positive view on life. Unfortunately, many caregivers deny themselves this vital down time because of feelings of guilt, leading to exhaustion and even lapses in their own care.
To be at their best, caregivers must learn to create a self-care routine and stick with it. Going on regular walks, talking with friends and loved ones (see support network, above), and eating healthy meals consistently are all important habits that will go a long way.
- Join a support group
Feelings of frustration, helplessness, and even anger are common in caregivers, and it’s perfectly normal for them to feel this way. But as soon as a caregiver experiences these feelings, it’s critical that he or she gets help. Support groups are an excellent vehicle for caregivers to share common problems and help each other get through tough times. If face-to-face support groups are not an option, there are some wonderful on-line support groups to consider.
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Understand personal limits
No matter how well a caregiver handles his or her responsibilities, there may come a time when the loved one’s needs are simply too much to handle without professional support. Being a good caregiver means recognizing one’s own limitations, and reaching out for professional help when time and support networks can’t be stretched any further.
Accepting in-home care doesn’t necessarily mean hiring a full-time nurse or support staff, and caregivers should speak to a qualified professional about what level of support is right for them.
Remember, caregivers and care recipients deserve to enjoy the holidays. Do a caregiver a favor and get involved. Your actions will definitely help make someone’s life a little easier. In fact, they might save that life!
Home Helpers now offers a short-term plan that gives primary caregivers a chance to rest, and the option to resume their duties once they’re feeling relaxed and healthy again. To learn more, click here.
» Contact Home Helpers.