Preventing Alzheimer’s Caregivers’ Burnout During the Holidays

“I don’t have any time to myself,” many caregivers declare.  “I can’t find anyone to help or stay with Mother (or Father or spouse).” This also becomes a challenge during the holiday season when we’re trying to do extra.

I learned I had to find help to give myself relife and “recharge my batteries.”  My husband would stay with Mother while I did shopping and errands, but I couldn’t expect him to take over care for long periods.  Also, we wanted to do things together and had business obligations that took us outside the home.

My neighbor helped, one of the nurses at the day care did this type of work on her own time (even caring for Mother in her home for a weekend), the local nursing home provided day care.  Of course, I did have to pay for this care as I would a babysitter for a small child.

If siblings live in the area and will help, that’s great.  However, often they live at a distance, or offer excuses when it comes to actual caregiving.

You MUST find relief for yourself.  Check with:

*Caregiver groups for suggestions

*Home health agencies

*Senior center

*Local hospital

*Nursing homes

*Others caring for elderly parents, spouses, or relatives

*Online support groups

Many of these at least can give you ideas where to find assistance if they don’t provide it.  It’s not always easy and can be very frustrating.  Caregiver relief also presents a problem when money is tight for outside care.  Sometimes, in networking with others, you can find free/inexpensive care or exchange care with someone, such as mothers of youngsters do.

What solutions have you discovered in finding some free time for yourself?