Vacations Can Recharge Caregivers

America is known for its hard workers. The Center for Economic Policy and Research gave it a nickname–“No Vacation Nation”–in a study that examined paid vacation time in 21 wealthy countries. No surprise, America ranks last in the legally required number of paid vacation days and holidays.

There are plenty of downsides to those facts. For example, one study showed that working more than 55 hours a week is associated with a 35% higher risk of stroke. That health risk persists even after a person stops working 55 hours a week. And that data doesn’t even account for unpaid labor like family caregivers. Caregivers deserve vacations, too!

Vacation time offers many health benefits, including:

• Increases mindfulness: The act of breaking your normal routine forces you out of “autopilot” and makes your brain focus more on your surroundings.
• Improves heart health: Taking regular vacations is associated with a decreased risk of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of health issues that raise the risk of heart disease.
• Reduces stress: Time away from your everyday environment removes you from the place you may associate with stress and anxiety.

Those health benefits make you a better caregiver! As the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. So why aren’t family caregivers taking the vacations they so obviously deserve?

Family caregivers can face many barriers that prevent them from enjoying a restorative vacation. Here are some of the things that can get in the way, and how to deal with them.

Time. Family caregiving is a demanding job, and rarely does it offer paid time off. And if the caregiver does have another job (as is common) it’s likely that much of any paid time off is used to provide care for their loved ones. Consider hiring professional caregivers or asking other friends or family members to pitch. Be sure to be upfront with other family members about the cost of hiring professional care, and ask them to help.

Money. Budgets can be tight for family caregivers. The AARP reports that family caregivers spend 26% of their income on caregiving activities, and many cut back hours at work to provide care. But a vacation doesn’t need to be extravagant. Ask around for discounts or consider off-season travel. Seek out low-cost activities like museums or national parks. Eating out can be expensive, so plan your meals and pack snacks to keep your vacations in your budget.

Caregiving requirements. Perhaps you have convinced yourself that you are the only person capable of proving care for your loved one in the manner they prefer. Maybe they have a complicated medical history or require high levels of support. But (literally) rest assured, there are capable professionals who are ready to handle whatever care your loved one needs. Respite care is available from skilled nursing facilities, and professional caregivers can come to wherever your loved one needs them. The change of pace and new face may even be enjoyable for them!

Guilt. Guilt is a difficult emotion that is all too common in family caregiving. If the person receiving care is a parent or spouse, it can be extra hard to step away. After all, your mother raised you! Or you pledged an oath to your spouse “in sickness and in health,” so you may feel that taking a break for yourself is selfish or unreasonable. But try and give yourself the grace you would give someone else in your shoes. No one person can do it all alone, and you endanger your own health when you do not take time away from caregiving.

Providing The Best In-Home Care

Taking breaks and avoiding caregiver burnout is incredibly important for both the caregiver's well-being and the quality of care they provide. Here's why:

• Prevention of Caregiver Burnout — Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that can result from chronic caregiving stress. It can lead to decreased immune function, chronic health issues, strained relationships, and a decline in the quality of care provided. Taking regular breaks helps prevent burnout by managing stress levels and promoting overall well-being.


• Self-Care — Caregivers often prioritize the needs of their loved ones over their own, which can lead to neglecting their physical and emotional well-being. Taking breaks allows caregivers to engage in self-care activities, rest, and recharge. By prioritizing their own health, caregivers can maintain their stamina, reduce stress, and prevent burnout.


• Improved Caregiving — Caregivers who take breaks and avoid burnout are better equipped to provide quality care. When they are well-rested, physically, and mentally refreshed, and emotionally stable, they can approach their caregiving responsibilities with increased patience, empathy, and attentiveness. This ultimately improves the overall care experience for their loved ones.


• Perspective and Balance — Stepping away from caregiving duties for a while can provide caregivers with a fresh perspective and help them maintain a sense of balance in their lives. It allows them to reconnect with their own interests, relationships, and personal goals. By nurturing their own needs and maintaining a sense of identity outside of caregiving, they can find a healthy balance in their roles.

Offering The Support You Need

Are you a family caregiver providing support for your loved ones? We understand the immense dedication and responsibility it entails. That's why we're here to tell you about the amazing support our Right at Home-care professionals offer to family care providers like you!

Right at Home Northwest Oklahoma City is committed to making your caregiving journey smoother and less overwhelming. Here's how we can help:

• Expert Caregivers — Our highly trained and compassionate caregivers are here to provide respite care and support to your loved ones. Whether it's assistance with daily activities, companionship, or specialized care, they bring professional expertise to enhance the quality of life for your family member.


• Personalized Care Plans — We understand that each person's needs are unique. Our dedicated team collaborates with you to create customized care plans tailored to your loved one's specific requirements. We believe in a person-centered approach, focusing on their well-being and maintaining their independence.


• Peace of Mind — With Right at Home, you can finally take a well-deserved break without worrying about your loved one's safety and comfort. Our caregivers provide reliable and trustworthy care, allowing you to recharge, attend to personal commitments, or simply take some time for self-care.


• Continuity of Care — Our commitment to consistency ensures that your loved one receives uninterrupted care. We understand the importance of building strong relationships, and our caregivers strive to develop a bond with your family members, fostering trust and familiarity.

Discover the relief and support you deserve as a family care provider with Right at Home. Let us be your partners on this caregiving journey, providing high-quality care that makes a real difference in your loved one's life. Right at Home can provide respite care so caregivers can take a break knowing their loved one is in good hands.

Contact us today to learn more about how our caring professionals can support you and your family. Together, we'll create a nurturing and comfortable environment for your loved one, while ensuring you have the support you need to thrive. You're not alone – we're here for you!

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