If you are playing the role of primary caregiver for a loved one, you know the amount of stress that can be associated with this task. We all want to help our aging loved ones retain as much freedom and independence as we can for as long as possible – but for those who are not mindful of their own needs, the demands of caregiving can lead to depression, anger, anxiety, and worse.
Signs of caregiver-related stress
Research from the Mayo Clinic indicates that caregivers may be so focused on meeting the needs of their loved ones that they neglect their own physical and emotional well-being. Too much stress over an extended period of time can be bad for your health. As a caregiver you are more prone to experience symptoms of anxiety or depression. You may not get enough sleep which can lead to irritability – and your diet may be negatively affected which increases your chance for other medical problems like heart disease and diabetes. In the end, it is important to remember that if you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to effectively help take care of your loves ones either.
Know Your Limitations
It takes a strong person to be a caregiver, but even the most resilient people have limits. Always be
aware of the type of care you can safely provide and never cross the line by trying to do something you are not comfortable doing. It is not always easy to admit when the care needs of your loved ones become too complicated for you to handle safely on your own – but when this happens, Primrose is here to help. We work with caregivers who are concerned about the well-being of their loved ones every day. We assess their needs, develop a plan tailored to their unique situation, and give you peace of mind in knowing that they are safe 24 hours a day.
We want you to enjoy your time with family and leave the caretaking to us. If you have questions
about how Primrose can assist you and your loved ones, we would be honored to visit with you. Just go
to www.primroseretirement.com for additional info and to find the Primrose nearest to you.