Alzheimers Caregiver Burnout

What is it?

Alzheimers caregiver burnout can happen to anyone who is a primary caregiver for someone with Alzheimer's Disease. When a caregiver becomes physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausted the result is caregiver burnout. Many caregivers, especially spouses, try to do everything themselves for their loved one. In the beginning that may work, but as the disease progresses the caregiver needs help. As the stress of being a full time caregiver grows, you begin to lose interest and motivation.


Alzheimers Caregiver Burnout can make you Physically Sick

Often the caregiver becomes sleep-deprived because the person with Alzheimer's Disease is not sleeping and they are afraid to go to sleep. They worry all of the time. The caregiver is afraid to leave them alone or with someone else. Many times they just don't want to bother anyone else. A spouse may feel it is their responsibility and the burden is theirs alone.


Caregiver burnout is a very serious issue. The symptoms of caregiver burnout are similar to those of stress and depression.Caregiver burnout is the number one reason why people with Alzheimers Disease are placed in nursing homes. Learn how to recognize it and prevent it from happening in your family.


The Symptoms of Caregiver Burnout

Loss of interest in activities

Withdrawing from friends & family

Neglecting your own needs

Neglecting the person you are caring for

Increased frustration towards the person you are caring for

Change in appetite

Change in sleep patterns

Feeling hopeless

Irritability

Anxiety

Depression

Excessive use of alcohol

Losing control physically or emotionally

Feeling caregiving has taken over your life

People with caregiver burnout also get sick more often.


If you suspect you or someone you know has caregiver burnout, you need to take action!

Ask for help!

No one can do it alone!


Preventing Caregiver Burnout

Take time out for yourself

Ask friends and family for help

Have someone you trust come sit with your loved one for a few hours every week and get out of the house for awhile

Keep in contact with friends

Continue to do activities you enjoy

Don't keep your feelings bundled up inside

Have someone you can talk to

Find a support group- it helps to talk to someone who has been an Alzheimers caregiver

Listen to happy music

Find some time each day for yourself, get up a half an hour early

Start a journal, many people have found this helps







Home Page 


Do you know what stage of Alzheimer's Disease your loved one is in?

Do you know what to watch for next?

Do you have sitters coming in and need to have a better system to help them provide the best care?

Does your loved one have behaviors that you should be tracking?

Do you have all of the information written down you need when you go to your doctor visits to help them understand what needs you may have?

Do you need help keeping track of appointments, medicines, vital signs, weights, meals, bowels, and behaviors?

Caregivers Notebook

Dementia - it's more than just memory loss. Are you prepared for what's next?

The ALZLOG App was created to help you recognize what stage your loved one is in and prepare for what is coming next for your loved one.

Come check out my YouTube channel for helpful tips and support on caring for loved ones with dementia. Let's navigate this journey together!

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