According to the Guardian, about 100 million U.S. adults act as caregivers for a family member. Many of these individuals also work full-time jobs in addition to the care they provide. They may rely on another family member to provide financial stability.
In either case, a person’s role as a caregiver is both a job of utmost importance as well as a strenuous job. It can be unforgiving and especially hard for those trying to find balance in their lives.
Here’s how you can recognize when you need to find respite care in Burlington and why you’ll want their services.
Understanding Respite Care in Burlington, NJ
Respite care is one of the many senior living options available to people aged 65 and over. Whereas assisted living is meant to serve as a long-term housing situation, respite care is intended as a temporary reprieve for caregivers.
Individuals may decide to sign up for respite care as a short-term stay following hospitalization. It’s especially helpful for avoiding complications that may land them back in the hospital.
If a caregiver needs to step away from their duties momentarily, they can rely on the respite care provider to give their loved one professional attention and support.
When to Seek Temporary Senior Care Options
Choosing respite care doesn’t mean that you can’t handle your loved one’s wellness alone or that you’re a failure as a caregiver. If anything, it means that you’re putting in the effort to make sure your mental and physical health is as good as possible for their sake.
Senior care in Burlington, NJ should be an option if you feel any of the following signs:
- Physical or emotional exhaustion
- Increased stress
- Poor personal health
- Negative feelings regarding your loved one
- Diminished social life
- Feeling like you’re not providing the care needed
Physical or Emotional Exhaustion
Caregiving is often a physically demanding job that requires a person to constantly stand, walk, or bend down to help their loved one. It’s very easy for someone to become exhausted. They may even worry about the person they’re in charge of and struggle with sleep and emotional distress.
Some caregiver burnout signs include finding yourself constantly tired, feeling drained before a day begins, or becoming more irritable.
Increased Stress Levels
Chronic stress is common among caregivers, especially if they’re the sole caregiver for their loved one. It’s a lot to take on, and they don’t always get the break they need.
If you notice that your stress is becoming uncontrolled, then it may be time to get help. Respite care is not a long-term solution, but it can give you the chance to relax and take care of yourself. It may be the opportunity you need to find assistance at home.
Neglected Personal Health and Well-Being
You may find yourself neglecting your own personal health and well-being in exchange for remaining present for your loved one. After all, some dependents may need around-the-clock care. Anything could happen during that one hour you want to spend at the gym.
However, neglecting your health, ignoring your diet, or avoiding exercise can all lead to serious health issues. You can’t help anyone if you end up hospitalized or needing care yourself.
Respite care puts your caregiving duties on pause so you can focus on your health and happiness.
Feelings of Resentment
It’s natural to feel a range of emotions as a caregiver – both good and bad. These emotions only become more heightened as your stress level rises and you become increasingly tired.
Thinking for a moment that your life would be better without your loved one doesn’t make you a bad person. It makes you human, and sometimes people need a break to recalibrate their thoughts and emotions.
The length of respite care will vary between communities, but even a couple of days off can do wonders for the human body and mind.
Lack of Social Life
Some caregiving roles don’t allow for a lot of free time. You may need to help your loved one continuously throughout the day or be ready at any moment. This can make your life isolating and limit your ability to socialize with friends and other family members.
If you feel disconnected, then respite care will provide that opportunity you need. Arrange something like a family barbecue in advance or a trip to another city. Make time to enjoy yourself without feeling guilty about it.
Inability to Provide Quality Care
The way a caregiver feels has a direct impact on the level of care they provide. If you’re not at your best physically or emotionally, then the quality of your care may decline.
It’s as simple as taking a step back for a few days and recharging. Don’t run yourself dry over a matter of pride or obligation.
Respite Care Benefits
Respite care brings a lot of benefits for both caregivers and their loved ones that you may not consider.
To begin with, it could be good for a senior to get out of their comfort zone and spend time with other people their age. They may not get that opportunity at home, even if they can see family members on occasion.
Veterans may qualify for discounts on the cost of respite care. If not, they usually get a discount when they move into an assisted living community.
Your loved one can think of their time at respite care as a trial run. They may need to make the transition later in life if their condition progresses or their caregiver wants to pursue other goals.
Try Out Respite Care
Some caregivers may find it difficult to admit that they need help. When you rely on respite care in Burlington, you get access to professionals who understand the struggle and want you to get that break you deserve.
Granville Place is an assisted living community that creates individual care plans to meet the needs of each of our residents. Anyone who decides to stay here gains access to bingo, exercise classes, pet therapy, and more. Reach out today with any inquiries or to set up a visit.
