Caregiving is not a new thing, as some may think. Caregivers have been around probably for as long as humanity has existed. Being a caregiver means looking after someone else. In the 21st-century context, most people associate caregiving with caring for a loved one. Another thing that's not as new as we may think is caregiver burnout. Read on to learn more about it.

Over time, the number of caregivers has grown steadily. It’s probably safe to say that the main drivers of this growth have been population growth and the affordability of healthcare. 

The US population according to The US Census Bureau decennial census reports, increased by almost 18%, from 281.4 million in 2000 to 331.4 million in 2020. In comparison, the group of age 65 and over grew from 35 million, or 12% of the total population, to 55 million, equivalent to nearly one in six Americans. 

This aging population has, in turn, translated to an increase in the number of caregivers. According to the Federal Register, there were an estimated 13 million caregivers in 2000. That number, in 2020, grew to a massive 53 million. That’s a threefold increase in the ratio of caregivers to the overall population. 

It’s no wonder then, that caregiver burnout is now much more visible and being considered as a serious consequence for many caregivers. Although the notion of burnout among carers dates back to 1986 with the publication of Spouse Burnout Syndrome by JY Ekberg, et al, the condition has only recently come to the forefront in the field of caregiving.

What is caregiver burnout? 

Caregiver burnout, also sometimes referred to as caregiver stress or caregiver syndrome, is a serious issue that affects many individuals who provide care for loved ones. It manifests as a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by the demands and challenges of caregiving. 

Caregivers may experience a range of symptoms, including fatigue, depression, anxiety, and irritability. If left unchecked, caregiver burnout can cause or contribute to more serious health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. 

What causes it?

The primary cause of caregiver burnout is self-neglect. Many caregivers buckle under the burden because they take on more responsibility than they can handle. These pressures may create a feeling of inadequacy due to a lack of skills, physical capacity or financial resources. In the long run, they’re bound to trigger mental and emotional responses.

Caregivers may become disillusioned by the apparent lack of improvement in their patient’s condition or demeanor. Often, this is an unrealistic expectation, particularly for patients suffering from cognitive decline or other types of degenerative afflictions.   

How to recognize caregiver burnout

Knowing the symptoms of caregiver burnout is essential for preventing and managing the condition. Let’s look at some of the most common symptoms:

• Constant fatigue and exhaustion
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of interest in hobbies and other activities
• Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
• Irritability and mood swings
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Excessive use of alcohol, stimulants or sleep medications
• Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach problems, and muscle pain

 Managing or treating caregiver burnout

It is important for caregivers to recognize these symptoms and take steps to manage them. One of the most effective ways to cope with caregiver burnout is to take care of yourself. This includes:

• Getting enough sleep
• Eating a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Setting aside time for your own relaxation and leisure activities
• Establishing a support network of friends, family, and professionals
• Being open to emotional support and counseling

Another important step in coping with caregiver burnout is to recognize your own capabilities and limitations and to set boundaries accordingly. You should not neglect your own needs and wants in order to meet the needs of your patient or loved one. Set limits on the amount of time and energy you are willing to devote to caregiving. This may include delegating tasks to other family members or hiring professional caretakers.

Organize yourself to better cope with everyday chores. Setting up schedules and making sure you have adequate supplies on hand eliminate or reduce the stress of having to get a prescription filled urgently or cleaning up a bathroom accident because you ran out of supplies. Click here for some ideas on how to set yourself up to be a great caregiver and make your task a little easier. 

Don’t be a hero.

You don’t have to walk this road alone. Consider seeking out community resources and support groups such as the Family Caregiver Alliance. Many of these organizations offer support and resources for caregivers, including counseling, respite care, and financial assistance. Joining a support group can also provide a sense of community and help caregivers to connect with others who are going through similar experiences.

If you are experiencing severe symptoms of burnout, it is essential to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide counseling and therapy to help you manage the emotional and psychological demands of caregiving. They can also help you develop strategies for coping with stress, such as relaxation techniques and mindfulness exercises. 

In conclusion, caregiver burnout is a serious issue that affects many individuals who provide care for loved ones. It is important to recognize the symptoms of caregiver burnout and take steps to manage them, such as taking care of yourself, setting boundaries, seeking out community resources and support groups, and seeking professional help if necessary. 

Pace yourself and try not to do too much at once. Take a break whenever you feel that you need one, even if it’s just a few small moments to step away and catch your breath. Prioritize your own health and well-being. You’re not of much use to your patient or loved one if you overdo it and become ill. Caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint. 

They say that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Take that step today. Contact LL Medico for advice on the supplies you may need in caring for your loved one. We have a substantial range of equipment and consumables for patients suffering from incontinence, impaired mobility and other infirmities.

We’ve been assisting caregivers for over 25 years and we’re ready willing and able to share our knowledge and experience with you. Even if it’s only one step of many, take away the stress of managing your supplies. Give LL Medico a call at (855) 422-4556 or drop us a line at support@llmedico.com. We’re here to help you beat caregiver burnout.