Recuperating from the Holidays as a Caregiver
When you're the caregiver for a loved one who has dementia or Alzheimer's, the holidays can be stressful. Whether it's from a disruption in your loved one's schedule to unexpected guest dropping by, you can become worn out. So, taking a break after the holiday season can be a much-needed move on your part. But there can be some issues when you’re trying to find the time to take that break.
One because inside you may resist the idea of having someone else caring for your family member. Or, there may be financial issues that get in the way. Plus, finally, other family members may be reluctant to step in and help.
Ways to make it less complicated for you to take a break.
One of the things that you will have to accept is that you may feel some guilt when thinking about leaving the caregiving in someone else’s hands. Guilt won’t disappear because it’s a part of caregiving which is normal because you care about the welfare of your family member. But you need to take those breaks, so your own health doesn’t decline. That would leave you unable to take care of the older adult in your life.
Another point to think about is that you don't have to ask permission of the person for whom you are caregiving. Many older adults may refuse the thought of outside care because they don't feel comfortable with it. When your loved one refuses to consider the idea of you taking time for yourself, they aren't considering your needs. As long as your family member are well taken care of and safe, then you make your plans for your break.
Having a plan in place
You also might want to have a plan in place for alternate caregiving before the need arrives. Getting help before you need it is crucial, so the person can learn your loved one's routines. Have someone or several someones in place, and all the detail's worked out before you need to go. Or you could have a family member or a professional caregiver follow you around until the routine is learned. Or, have a person in for short periods of time that will gradually lengthen until your loved one is comfortable with them.
The cost of a professional caregiver can be countered with caregiving from family members and friends. By being open to different sources of caregiving will lower the cost of taking a break frequently. But paying for professional caregivers to stay with your loved one for overnight in shifts is worth maintaining to help improve your physical and mental health.
Types of respite care
There are different types of respite care. One kind is to have an in-home care agency send a companion. This type of care is for times when you want to lunch with your friends but don’t want to leave your loved one alone. The companion can talk, watch TV, play card games or whatever will keep your loved one entertained while you’re gone.
Another type of companion care is when the caregiver will help with light housekeeping, laundry, prepare meals, and run errands. Some, if needed, will also help with bathing, dressing, grooming and the toilet. It depends on how much care your loved one needs. When you decide that, then you can figure out what type of respite care you will need to hire. By taking better care of yourself, both mentally and physically, you will be able to take better care of your loved one.
We here at Right at Home can help you with respite care. We’re insured and bonded with specially trained caregivers in the areas which are needed. With us, the well-being and safety of our clients are always first. We’re the ones to call to provide respite care when you need a break.
