3 Top Concerns of Family Caregivers (And What to Do About Them)

Family caregivers of senior loved ones often have several concerns, both about their senior loved ones and about their caregiving responsibilities. Learning how to handle those concerns can make it much easier for family members to take care of their senior loved ones and maintain their usual high quality of life at the same time. 

Concern #1: Isolation

Caring for a senior loved one can feel incredibly isolating. Between 40% and 70% of caregivers note feelings of isolation and loneliness, which may continue to grow as they spend more time caring for senior loved ones. In many cases, caregivers may not have the ability to meet up with friends or loved ones the way they once did. 

The Solution

Caregivers may need to schedule time for themselves, including meetings with friends. Respite care can help give caregivers more time to spend on the things that matter to them without having to worry that their loved one will not receive adequate care.

Concern #2: Time Management

Taking care of a senior loved one can take up a great deal of time in the day. Many caregivers already have considerable other responsibilities, including caring for friends and loved ones. In many cases, it can be difficult to juggle all of those responsibilities. Many caregivers worry that important things will fall through the cracks. 

The Solution

Caregivers worry about time management and may need to take advantage of the resources available to them. In addition to asking for help from friends and loved ones when necessary, they may want to consider bringing in professional caregivers who can help with personal care, companion care, or even simply sitting with a loved one who may require some supervision following injury or surgery.

Concern #3: Sleep Deprivation

Sometimes, as seniors struggle with serious health conditions, they may no longer sleep through the night. Patients with Alzheimer's or dementia, for example, may wander during the nighttime hours. Other times, seniors may require assistance at night, including help getting to the bathroom, cleaning up after an accident, or managing symptoms of illness. Caregivers may struggle to find adequate time to rest during those overnight hours. 

The Solution

Using overnight care services to help with seniors who may need additional assistance during the nighttime hours can provide considerable relief for many caregivers. Working with friends and family members can also help create a rotating schedule of assistance that may make it easier for primary caregivers to get the rest they need. 

Get the Help You Need to Address Caregiving Concerns With Senior Helpers Metairie

Serving as the primary caregiver for a senior loved one can feel incredibly difficult. However, you do not have to take care of those tasks alone. If you live in Metairie, Kenner, New Orleans, or Westwego, Senior Helpers Metairie can help provide respite care, sitting services, personal care assistance, and more to seniors. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help address your concerns.