Caring for a loved one with dementia is a tough job and causes severe stress. A bigger problem is many a time the care givers are not aware of the emotional burden they carry and keep saying “I am fine, I am Ok”. They think it is their duty and responsibility to take care of the person with dementia, come what may, because most of the time it is their parent or spouse or a grandparent; in the process get burned out and their own physical and mental health gets affected.

Along with heavy workload and emotional demands of family care giving, the following issues can also contribute to burnout:

*Conflicting demands as one tries to balance the needs of the care recipient, co-workers and employees, family members and oneself.

*Lack of control over money and resources and lack of the skills needed to effectively manage a loved one’s care.

*Lack of privacy because caregiving may leave one, with little time to be alone.

*Role confusion difficulty separating one’s role as care giver and as the parent, sibling or spouse of the care recipient.

*Unreasonable demands placed upon a care giver by other family members or the person being cared for.

*Unreasonable expectations about the effect caregiving efforts will have on loved ones with progressive diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson disease.

Warning signs of caregiver burnout:

•  Anger or frustration towards the person one is caring for.

•  Anxiety and or depression. 

•  Denial about the condition of the care recipient.

•  Exhaustion that makes it difficult to complete one’s daily tasks. 

•  Health problems such as getting sick very often; developing diabetes, hypertension etc.

•  Inability to concentrate that makes it difficult to perform familiar tasks or causes to forget appointments.

•  Irritability, moodiness and sleeplessness.

•  Social withdrawal from friends and activities that one used to enjoy, leading to isolation.

Tips to reduce caregiver stress:

•  Give yourself a break: Ask a friend or relative to fill in for you for a few hours occasionally so you can take a walk, watch a movie or go to dinner.

•  Simplify communication: Keeping extended family and friends up to date about your loved one’s situation through phone calls and emails can be tiring.

•  Join a support group: If you feel like you are alone in your struggles, talking with other family caregivers can lift your spirits and help you think through solutions to various problems.

•  Nurture positive relationships: You may be overwhelmed but take the time to talk with your closest friends and family members about how you are feeling. Spend an evening with someone who is a good listener. Limit your interactions with negative people who will drag down your mood and perspective.

•  Take care of your own health: Set a goal to establish a good sleep routine and an exercise regimen. A daily relaxation and meditation practice can be beneficial. Be sure to eat healthy food and drink plenty of water.

Self-care is as important as caring for your loved one and they go hand in hand.