Caregivers can face several strong and overwhelming emotions as they perform their duties. It’s important for you to recognize your own emotions and realize other caregivers face the same issues. Family caregivers could experience any or all of the following emotions.
1. Anxiety
Not knowing what will happen with your senior loved one or feeling like you no longer control your own life could lead to anxiety. To keep anxiety from overwhelming you, take a break to de-stress for a few minutes.
2. Sadness
Having a family member who’s too sick to care for him or herself can be an upsetting situation. It’s wise to talk to a therapist and take the time to confront your sadness.
3. Grumpiness
Caregiving can make a person feel exhausted, stressed out, grumpy, and irritable. If you feel you’re getting upset about every small thing, you may need to take a break to find the source of this emotion.
4. Embarrassment
Many dementia caregivers report they stay at home more often because their loved ones’ behavior makes public outings embarrassing.
Even when families have the best intentions, caring for a senior loved one with dementia can be challenging. Fortunately, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help. We are a leading provider of dementia care. Arlington families can take advantage of our flexible and customizable care plans, and our caregivers always stay up to date on the latest developments in senior care.
5. Anger
You may have to go through a lot of annoying and frustrating situations when caring for your loved one. If your loved one is constantly grumpy, combative, rude, or ungrateful, you may be tempted to erupt. It can be helpful to walk away when a situation gets too tense.
6. Guilt
Many caregivers feel guilty when they’re not focusing on their loved ones or providing perfect care. It’s important to realize you’re doing the best you can in a tough situation.
7. Resentment
Family dynamics can be challenging. You may end up feeling resentment toward your loved one, siblings who choose not to help, or those who are unable to be full-time caregivers.
8. Boredom
Many of the duties of being a caregiver can be boring. Caregivers are likely to get bored when they’re stuck at home all day, so picking up a hobby like reading or sewing may be beneficial.
9. Distaste
Bodily functions cause many caregivers to feel sickened or disgusted. These feelings may lessen as you get used to assisting with toileting and bathing, or it might be helpful to hire assistance for these tasks.
If your loved one needs help with toileting, bathing, and other daily tasks, consider hiring a professional caregiver. One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide senior home care. Turn to Assisting Hands Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.
10. Loneliness
When you’re caring for a senior loved one for the whole day, you may end up feeling isolated and alone. Even if you have good friends, it may feel like none of them understand your situation. Many family caregivers find it helpful to join caregiver support groups.
Caring for a loved one and assisting him or her with daily tasks can be overwhelming at times. However, the challenges of caregiving don’t have to be faced alone. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable service home care. Arlington, VA, families trust Assisting Hands Home Care to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent and manage serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age. Reach out to one of our dedicated Care Managers today at (703) 988-1800 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.
