Suddenly You're a Caregiver. Now What?

Since the global spread of COVID-19, an increasing number of individuals have unexpectedly found themselves in the role of family caregiver. This may have resulted from their loved one's paid caregivers falling ill or leaving their profession to care for family members. However, becoming a family caregiver can happen outside of a pandemic as well. A loved one who was previously living independently may experience an illness or injury that requires additional support at home, leading to the sudden emergence of a family caregiver.

In recent years, society has become more aware of the stressful predicament faced by family caregivers. Family caregiver stress encompasses the physical, emotional, and financial strain experienced by those who provide care to their family members or loved ones. In Canada, it is estimated that over 9 million people provide informal care to aging loved ones with long-term health conditions, disabilities, or aging-related needs, spending an average of 19 hours per week providing care. Many caregivers juggle full-time jobs or other responsibilities, making it challenging to balance caregiving with other aspects of their lives. The economic value of unpaid caregiving provided by family caregivers is estimated to be around $30 billion.

Research indicates that family caregivers experience higher rates of stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout compared to non-caregivers. Additionally, many caregivers face financial challenges due to the costs associated with caregiving or reduced income prospects resulting from their inability to work full-time or advance in their careers. The intense demands of caregiving can also have negative implications for the physical health of caregivers. They often report higher rates of chronic health conditions, decreased immune function, and increased vulnerability to illness.

“Caring for a loved one can be a fulfilling experience, but it is crucial to recognize the physical, mental, and emotional toll that caregiving can take on one's life” says Dr. Lakelyn Eichenberger, a gerontologist and caregiver advocate at Home Instead. By taking a moment to assess the specific challenges and develop a plan of action, family caregivers can create a caregiving environment that benefits everyone involved.

Here are some strategies that can help alleviate family caregiver stress:

1. Educate yourself: Learn about the condition or illness of the person you are caring for. Understanding their needs, treatment options, and available resources can help caregivers feel more confident and better equipped to manage their caregiving responsibilities.
2. Seek support: Reach out to family members, friends, or community support groups for emotional support and shared experiences. Connecting with others who are going through similar situations can provide a sense of understanding and validation.
3. Delegate tasks: Identify specific tasks that others can assist with and don't hesitate to ask for help. This could involve household chores, meal preparation, or running errands. Accepting assistance lightens the family caregiver's workload and reduces stress.
4. Take breaks: It is critical for family caregivers to take regular breaks and make time for themselves. Arranging for respite care, where a trusted individual or professional caregiver temporarily takes over caregiving duties, allows the caregiver to rest, engage in self-care, or pursue personal interests.
5. Practice self-care: Prioritize self-care activities for physical and mental well-being. This may include getting enough sleep, eating a nutritious diet, regular exercise, relaxation techniques (e.g., deep breathing, meditation, yoga), or pursuing hobbies and activities that bring joy and calm.
6. Maintain social connections: Stay connected with friends and maintain social relationships. Isolation can contribute to increased stress, so make an effort to engage in social activities or maintain communication with loved ones.
7. Monitor your own health: Regularly monitor your physical and mental health. Attend routine check-ups and seek medical attention for any health concerns. Remember that taking care of your own well-being is essential for providing effective care to others.
8. Seek professional assistance: Consult professionals, such as doctors, social workers, or professional care providers. For many family caregivers engaging the services of a professional caregiving company can be a smart and practical approach to managing the stresses involved with family caregiving. A professional caregiving company can offer quality support through skilled care managers and caregivers, help family caregivers with routine and longer respite breaks, manage stress, address emotional challenges, provide resources or referrals for additional support, and offer flexible schedules based on the changing health condition of an aging loved one etc.

By implementing some of these strategies, family caregivers can navigate the challenges of caregiving while prioritizing their own well-being.

If you know someone struggling as a family caregiver, or who can benefit from high quality care, contact the care experts at Home Instead – available 24/7
Call 604-432-1139