In a home care situation, you are constantly thinking about what's best for your loved one. It can get overwhelming at times. There are many things going on that cause stress and frustration. It's important to pay attention to your own body and thoughts. If you don't take care of yourself, you can't take good care of your loved one.

There is a lot going on when you are providing home care for a loved one. There are so many things to focus on that you don't always have time to take a break. You have to make sure your loved one is getting the medical care they need and taking their medications. You have to provide healthy meals and snacks, and then you have to make sure they are eating them. Bathing, dressing, washing sheets and clothes, paying bills, coordinating with various doctors - home care gets very overwhelming.

What are some of the things that cause stress? Are there ways that you can handle them to keep yourself from drowning in the workload? The symptoms of Alzheimer's and other types of dementia can be a source of significant stressors.

Losing Possessions - While everyone occasionally misplaces things, people suffering from dementia tend to lose things frequently. When you find yourself looking for the remote control, phone handset, or slippers for the tenth time before breakfast, it's hard to keep your cool.

Language Problems - It can really try a home caregiver's patience when a loved one is struggling for a word. You know the word they're looking for, and you want to jump in and just finish their thought. Don't beat yourself up when you run out of patience.

Personality Changes, Mood Swings - Dementia can bring with it anxiety, depression, uncooperativeness, and other changes in behavior. Some home care patients may even become combative or violent. It's important to remember that it isn't their fault.

So what can you do to keep yourself from experiencing home care burnout? There are several things that others have found helpful. Experiment and discover what helps make it easier for you.

Exercise - Take a long walk, join an aerobics class, or take out your frustrations on a punching bag.

Rest - If you aren't getting enough sleep, it can be a big problem. If your loved one wakes during the night, you may need some extra help or daytime naps.

Eat Right - If you aren't eating right, you will end up tired and irritable. A well-timed snack can keep you on an even keel.

Providing home care for a loved one is an important task. Take care of yourself so that you can give the care, love, and attention they need. Remember that your own needs and wants are important, too.

If you are interested in reading more articles on Home care and other senior care related topics please visit www.OurCareCommunity.com - a free resource built on the ideas of virtual community and social networking. Members can share their ideas and experiences, find the latest information on senior care issues, and connect with other members to get answers and advice.


Contributing Editor: Julie Sanocki, CNA
Julie is a graduate of the Certified Nursing Assistant program at Lanier Technical College and has over 10 years experience in elder care. Having been a family member arranging elder care as well as a professional providing it, she understands the needs and concerns of all involved.


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