When the lifestyle of a parent or loved one indicates that they may need additional support, many family members are quick to take on the responsibility themselves. For many, it’s a no-brainer that they should care for the person who cared for them for so many years. While this proposal is compassionate and admirable, many people don’t realize the costs and sacrifices of caregiving, including financial, mental, and physical.
At first, caring for your parent may be straightforward and even pleasant—driving them to their appointments or getting them groceries once a week. However, as their needs change, the responsibilities may become more complex and time-consuming, eventually to the point where it may take a toll on your physical or mental health. When this happens, it could be time to consider assisted living or caregiver support.
Brickmont Assisted Living offers assisted living, memory care, and respite care services throughout Atlanta, Georgia. We are sharing some indications that it could be time to consider caregiver support.
What to Look for in Your Family Member
Sometimes, you could be doing an effective job maintaining both your and your family member’s overall health. Yet, other times their needs may require more attention, causing you to no longer be able to provide them with the degree of care they need. Here are some changes to look for in your family member’s life.
Their Condition Has Worsened
If your family member has a chronic or progressive condition, it’s important to monitor their health and wellness as time goes on. In the early stages, their needs may be basic enough that you can deliver appropriate care. However, as the condition progresses, it may worsen, and they may require more professional, attentive care. It’s these situations that may prompt you to realize both yourself and your family member would benefit from additional support.
They’ve Become Lonely and Isolated
Even if your parent is relatively healthy and your caregiving responsibilities consist mainly of transportation to doctor’s appointments and the occasional grocery run, they still might be feeling isolated or lonely. If you notice that they’ve become less interested in their favorite activities or withdrawn from conversations, they could be lonely or depressed, and it could be an opportune time to discuss options like assisted living to create new socialization outlets and opportunities.
Fall Hazards and Other Risks
If you only care for your family member on a part-time basis, that means they are most likely home alone for a significant amount of time. If you notice a sudden change in how well-maintained their house seems, including spoiled food, fall hazards, and more, it could be a warning sign that they can no longer safely live on their own and would benefit from caregiver support.
What to Look for in Yourself
In addition to observing your parent’s lifestyle and wellness, it’s essential to pay attention to your own, as well. Caregiver burnout is an extremely common state that occurs when caregivers find themselves exhausted physically, mentally, and emotionally. Here are some things to look for in your own life that may indicate you’re experiencing caregiver burnout and could use the help of caregiver support.
Your Own Health is Declining
Many caregivers will prioritize the health and wellness of the family member they care for, even if it comes at a cost to their own health and wellness. Dedicating all your time to caregiving can result in poor diet decisions, less sleep, and disruptions to workout routines—all of which can cause a weakened immune system and other health concerns. A recent decline in health could be a warning sign that you need caregiver support.
You Feel Spread Too Thin
When you first agreed to take care of your aging parent or family member, you may not have realized how much of a time commitment it was going to be. And whether out of guilt or obligation, you might always put their needs first, even if that means letting your other relationships, commitments, and responsibilities fall to the wayside. Eventually, it may feel like you’re spread too thin and not able to maintain the quality of work or relationships that you desire, and it could be time to consider caregiver support.
Understanding Your Options
There are many reasons why you might want to consider caregiver support, but it’s important to remember that everyone’s situation is unique, and sometimes, you’ll just know when it’s time.
Once you and your family have decided that you may need additional support, it’s time to consider your options. At Brickmont Assisted Living, we offer two types of caregiver support: long-term options like assisted living and memory care and short-term respite care. Each option provides its own benefits and offers support to individuals and peace of mind to family caregivers.
If you find yourself in a situation like the ones listed above, we encourage you to consider caregiver support services through Brickmont Assisted Living. For more information on our services, and which could be suitable for your family, we invite you to contact our team of experts.
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