Caring for others can be rewarding, but it can also be very stressful. When a loved one needs support and caretaking, it can be a tough transition for everyone— both the caretaker and the person needing care. This can be especially true for people in rural areas who may have less access to local services. Here’s what you need to know about caregiver stress and how to manage it.
What is Caregiver Stress?
Caregiver stress happens when the demands of caring for someone else begin to wear you down. It can affect your physical and mental health. Signs of caregiver stress include:
Caregiver stress happens when the demands of caring for someone else begin to wear you down. It can affect your physical and mental health. Signs of caregiver stress include:
- Feeling tired all the time
- Getting angry or sad easily
- Having trouble sleeping
- Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
- Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless
The “Sandwich Generation”
Many people find themselves caring for both their children and their aging parents at the same time. This is called the “sandwich generation.” It can be extra stressful because you’re trying to meet everyone’s needs.
Many people find themselves caring for both their children and their aging parents at the same time. This is called the “sandwich generation.” It can be extra stressful because you’re trying to meet everyone’s needs.
Tips for sandwich generation caregivers:
- Set clear priorities
- Ask family members to help
- Take breaks when you can
- Join a support group for caregivers
Caring for Someone with Dementia or Alzheimer’s
Looking after someone with memory problems can be very challenging. People with dementia or Alzheimer’s may: Forget things often, get confused or upset easily, need help with daily tasks, have trouble communicating.
This can be frustrating and sad for caregivers. Learning about the disease and finding ways to cope is important.
Looking after someone with memory problems can be very challenging. People with dementia or Alzheimer’s may: Forget things often, get confused or upset easily, need help with daily tasks, have trouble communicating.
This can be frustrating and sad for caregivers. Learning about the disease and finding ways to cope is important.
How to Manage Caregiver Stress
1. Take care of yourself
Eat healthy foods, exercise, and get enough sleep.
Eat healthy foods, exercise, and get enough sleep.
2. Ask for help
Don’t try to do everything alone. Ask family, friends, or neighbors to pitch in.
Don’t try to do everything alone. Ask family, friends, or neighbors to pitch in.
3. Take breaks
Short breaks can help you recharge.
Short breaks can help you recharge.
4. Join a support group
Talking to other caregivers can make you feel less alone.
Talking to other caregivers can make you feel less alone.
5. Learn new skills
Taking classes on caregiving can help you feel more confident.
Taking classes on caregiving can help you feel more confident.
6. Stay connected
Keep in touch with friends and do things you enjoy.
Keep in touch with friends and do things you enjoy.
7. See your doctor
Regular check-ups can help catch health problems early.
Regular check-ups can help catch health problems early.
Resources for Rural Caregivers
- Area Agency on Aging: They can help you find local services for older adults.
- Alzheimer’s Association: Offers support and information for dementia caregivers.
- National Rural Health Association: Provides resources for rural health issues.
- Local churches or community centers: May offer support groups or respite care.
- Telehealth services: You can talk to doctors or counselors from home.
