Caregiver burnout does not just happen to caregivers who care for a family member. Burnout can happen in nursing homes, adult day care centers, and even in respite centers. This month, my article focuses on family caregiver burnout, while next month I cover caregiver burnout in the workplace. If you work with the elderly, this article may still be able to help you to recognize the burnout signs as they are similar. The only differences being the cause of burnout and what you can do to overcome burnout.
1. Family caregivers may be working as well as caring for a loved one. There isn't enough time in a day to do all the duties that the caregiver role takes on.
2. Many caregivers have their own families to look after. It can become quite stressful to care for young children as well as an elderly loved one.
3. Caregivers may not receive outside support from other family members or services in the community.
4. Income may also contribute to burnout because on top of worrying about how much care your loved one may need, there may be a question of how you can afford to pay for additional care. This can be seen in family members who either pay for adult day care services or who pay for the many respite services that are available to caregivers.
5. Family disputes may occur as well. Husbands, wives, or children may feel neglected at times. Therefore, the caregiver may feel trapped. They don't want to lose their family, but at the same time they can't turn their backs on a parent.
6. New caregivers may not have known all of the responsibilities that they have taken on with the caregiving role.
Depression: Caregivers may feel so overwhelmed with the caregiving role that they become withdrawn from others, frequently cry, and do not want to leave the house.
Overly Tired: Caregivers may find themselves exhausted all the time. Many caregivers don't receive enough sleep, often because many caregivers also have jobs and families to raise.
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