More than three out of four family carers say their ageing loved one’s needs are “overwhelming”, according to a new study, just published.
The recent stress test, which was carried out by Home Instead Senior Care in Galway, indicated that of the 8,000 family carers who participated, 91 per cent said at times they feel anxious or irritable.
Some 73 per cent have disturbed sleep patterns while 56 per cent seem to become ill more frequently.
Colman Gately of Home Instead Senior Care says carers are under a lot of pressure as they attempt to juggle many demands.
“Every day we encounter these family caregivers who love and want the best for their ageing family members but don’t know how to fit it all in. For these people, stress is a constant companion.”
“This generation of seniors is living longer and their children often are still raising families. They’re not prepared for their older parents’ needs and the dynamic between adult children and ageing parents is not a simple one.”
Home Instead Senior Care offers the following coping strategies for carers under stress:-
o Work Out: Exercise and enjoy something you like to do (walking, dancing, biking, running, swimming, etc ) for a minimum of 20 minutes at least three times per week. Consider learning a stress-management exercise such as yoga or tai-chi which teaches inner balance and relaxation.
o Meditate: Sit still and breathe deeply with your mind as “quiet” as possible whenever things feel like they are moving too quickly or you are feeling overwhelmed by your responsibilities as a caregiver. Many times you will feel as if you don’t even have a minute to yourself but it is important to walk away and to take that minute.
o Ask for Help: To avoid burnout and stress enlist the help of other family members, friends, and/or consider hiring a professional non-medical caregiver for assistance. There is no need to feel guilty for reaching out.
o Take a Break: Make arrangements for any necessary fill-in help (family, friends, volunteers or professional caregivers ). Take single days, a weekend, or even a week’s holiday, just make sure you line up your support system so you can be confident that your loved one is safe and happy. And when you’re away, stay away. Talk about different things, read that book you haven’t been able to get to, see a movie. Only a real break will renew and refresh you.
o Eat Well: Eat plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and proteins - including nuts and beans - and wholegrains. Indulging in caffeine, fast food and sugar as quick “pick-me-ups” also produces quick “let-downs.”
o Take Care of Yourself: Just like you make sure your loved one gets to the doctor regularly make sure you get your annual check-up. Being a caregiver provides many excuses for skipping your necessary check-ups, but you cannot and should not compromise your health.
o Indulge: Treat yourself to a foot massage, manicure, nice dinner, game of golf or a concert to take yourself away from the situation and to reward yourself for the wonderful care you are providing to your aging relative. You shouldn’t feel guilty about wanting to feel good.
o Find Support: Find a local caregiver’s support group which will help you understand what you are feeling and experiencing is normal for someone in your position. This is a place to get practical advice from people who are in your situation and to bounce off those feelings of stress, since everyone is likely to be in the same situation and can empathise.
For further information log onto www.homeinstead.ie
