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Many caregivers use respite care to rest, relax and catch up on sleep, spend quality time with friends and family, or take time for activities like exercising, shopping, personal care, and other errands.
Respite also provides a positive experience for the person receiving care. Your loved one may benefit from being in a new environment and spending time with other people.
Caregiver burnout is a very significant issue in our society today. According to statistics provided by the National Caregiver Alliance and AARP, approximately 34.2 million Americans have provided unpaid care to an adult age 50 or older in the last 12 months. These individuals may be suffering from any number of issues including Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, Parkinson’s, or any host of chronic illnesses.
Dr. Ismailoglu, Senior Care Partners’ Medical Director, stated, “Statistically, 80 percent of adults 65 years of age and older have at least one chronic condition, while 68% have two or more conditions. However, it is not uncommon to see 5 or 6 chronic conditions taking place simultaneously among the elderly.” He added, “Caring for individuals with these conditions can be extremely taxing on the caregiver.”
Below are some symptoms of “Caregiver Burnout:”
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
• Feeling blue, irritable, hopeless, and helpless
• Changes in appetite, weight, or both
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Getting sick more often
• Feelings of wanting to hurt yourself or the person for whom you are caring
• Emotional and physical exhaustion
• Excessive use of alcohol and/or sleep medications
• Irritability
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or feel you or your loved one can benefit from respite care, contact your Senior Care Partners Medical Social Worker to discuss the possibility of respite care.