Carer Fatigue & Burnout: The Signs & Symptoms

Providing care for a loved one, whether a family member, friend or partner, is rewarding but challenging. The physical demands and emotional toll can lead to a state known as carer fatigue. This can significantly impact the carer's physical and mental health, ultimately affecting the quality of care provided to their loved one.

What is carer fatigue?

Carer fatigue is a state of exhaustion caused by the ongoing physical, emotional and mental strain of caring for another person. It's a normal reaction to a demanding situation.

Some common symptoms and signs of carer fatigue are:

• constant fatigue;
• headaches and muscle tension;
• changes in appetite or sleep;
• irritability and frustration;
• anxiety and depression;
• difficulty concentrating;
• loss of patience or motivation;
• withdrawing from social activities;
• neglecting personal needs;
• difficulty fulfilling caring responsibilities;
• resentment towards loved one; and
• increased arguments or frustration.

 

How to manage carer fatigue and burnout

Fortunately, there are many strategies carers can adopt to manage fatigue and prevent burnout. Here are eight tried-and-true tactics:

1. Prioritise sleep: Aim for eight hours of quality sleep each night. Develop a consistent sleep schedule and practice good sleep hygiene, ensuring your bedroom is dark, quiet and comfortable.

2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Nourish your body with nutritious meals and regular exercise. Even gentle activities like walking can boost your mood and energy levels.

3. Seek support: Don't be afraid to reach out for help. Connect with family and friends, or join a carer support group. Sharing experiences and gaining advice from others in similar situations can be invaluable.

4. Delegate tasks: Explore in-home care options, ask loved ones for assistance with errands or chores and consider respite care to give yourself a much-needed break.

5. Practice self care: Schedule activities you enjoy, even if it's just a quiet cup of tea and a good book. Taking time for yourself helps you recharge and return to your loved one with renewed energy and patience.

6. Set boundaries: It's okay to say no sometimes. Learn to manage expectations and communicate your limitations to those around you. This includes setting boundaries with your loved one to ensure you have dedicated time for rest and self care.

7. Manage your finances: The financial burden of caring can be significant. Explore government benefits and financial assistance programs that may be available to help ease the strain. Talking to a financial advisor can also be helpful.

8. Stay connected: Social isolation can exacerbate carer fatigue. Make an effort to maintain connections with friends and family, even if it's just a phone call or video chat.

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What about employed carers?

Many Australians balance work and care responsibilities, but it can be incredibly challenging. Carers are encouraged to take time off from work whenever possible.

Here are some leave options for employed cares in Australia:

• Carer's leave: This allows some employees to take unpaid leave to care for a sick or injured family member. The Family and Medical Leave Act states eligible employees may be granted up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave a year.
• Compassionate leave: Many employers offer compassionate leave policies that may allow you to take additional unpaid leave in extenuating circumstances. Discuss your situation with your manager.

Carers struggling to manage their responsibilities can talk to their employer about a flexible work arrangement. Remember, taking time off is essential to maintain your wellbeing and ensure you can continue to provide quality care for your loved one.

How respite care can help

Respite care allows carers a temporary break from their caring responsibilities for their loved one. It can be provided in your home by a professional carer, or your loved one may stay at a dedicated respite care home.

Respite care offers numerous benefits:

• Provides a break: Respite care allows carers a crucial opportunity to rest, recharge and attend to their carer fatigue.
• Maintains quality of care: Respite carers are qualified professionals who can ensure your loved one receives high-quality care in your absence.
• Promotes positive mental health: Regular respite breaks can significantly reduce stress and prevent burnout in carers, ultimately leading to better care for older people.

 

If you’re interested in respite care, consider your options:

In-home services

Respite care providers can send qualified carers to your home to assist with daily tasks like showering, dressing and medication management. This allows you to run errands, attend appointments or simply get some much-needed rest. It can also include companionship care, where a carer provides social interaction and emotional support for your loved one while you're away.

Aged care residences

Many aged care facilities offer short-term stays specifically designed for respite care. Your loved one can stay for a few days or weeks, enjoying the benefits of a safe and supportive environment with access to activities, meals and assistance with daily living. Knowing your loved one is receiving high-quality care in a secure home allows you to take a break with peace of mind.

Estia Health: Supporting carers

Carer fatigue is a real concern, but it doesn't have to become a burden. By recognising the carer fatigue symptoms, understanding the causes and proactively seeking support, carers can maintain their health and continue to provide compassionate care for their elderly loved ones.

At Estia Health, we understand the unique challenges faced by carers of older adults. We offer respite services designed to support carers. This can be short- or long-term. Call us today to find out more about how we can help, or use our online resources to find out more  about respite care, long term care and our homes.