Caring for an aging family member is a rewarding task, but it is also a big responsibility. Many family caregivers experience serious overwhelm and also feel isolated or unsure where to turn for help. Support is available, but it might feel difficult to reach out to get that help. Whether family caregivers need practical or emotional support, elder care providers can offer them the time and space that they require to get the help they need.
Many family caregivers don’t realize that the best sources for immediate help might just be their own medical providers or their aging family member’s medical providers. These professionals can offer advice about care strategies and other planning and care-related issues. They can offer resources that allow family caregivers to avoid burning themselves out, too.
Caregiving doesn’t just sap physical strength, it also impacts emotional and mental wellness. If family caregivers already have a therapist or counselor, it’s vital to make and keep regular appointments. Reaching out to find a mental health professional is the next best step. Learning to set appropriate boundaries and learning coping strategies is incredibly helpful.
Many states and even larger counties may have agencies or departments dedicated to issues related to aging and to older adults. These organizations often offer free or low-cost programs, caregiver support, legal help, and support groups that family caregivers can access. They may be able to help with all sorts of issues that seem impossible to manage.
For family caregivers who are part of a religious or faith-based community, that might be one of the areas that has been difficult to maintain while caring for an aging family member. Reaching out to these churches, temples, and other faith groups can offer a source of comfort and connection. Other members may be able to help with companionship, check-in visits, meals for seniors, and more.
In addition to elder care services, sometimes friends and family members may be able to offer intermittent support. Sometimes family caregivers overlook this type of support because they need more consistent help along the way. But allowing friends and family members to help out when they can is a great way to get even a little bit of respite time.
Respite from professional caregivers is a fantastic way for family caregivers to get the consistent support they need. Scheduling regular respite time allows seniors to get safe support from experienced caregivers for a few hours or a full day. That might not be possible with other forms of support, simply out of concern. But elder care providers can tackle those responsibilities with ease.
Family caregivers don’t have to shoulder everything alone. There are other sources of support out there, including professional elder care teams who can be there to take care of all sorts of issues. Remembering to reach out for help is the first step in a path to less stress and overwhelm.
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