Stress is both universal and individual – everyone encounters stress; however, the source of stress and the approach to managing it varies by person. Words commonly used to define the term stress include pressure, anxiety, anger, strain, tension and uncertainty. Stressful situations run the gamete from daily hassles, such as driving in rush hour traffic and getting the kids ready for school, to life transitions, including moving, starting a new job or the death of a loved one.
Stress emerged as a topic of broad interest in the mid-60s when researchers concluded specific life events can be measured to determine the impact of stress on a person’s life. What is now referred to as the Social Readjustment Rating Scale proved to be a means to measure stress and estimate the amount of change or readjustment necessary to cope.
If you have heard the term caregiver stress you might imagine there is often tremendous stress associated with caring for aging or ill family members. Caregiver stress is often due to such factors as dealing with uncertainty, facing conflict or disagreement between family members, trying to balance multiple responsibilities and more.
In addition to some well-known and proven stress reduction techniques, such as deep, slow breathing, muscle relaxation, exercise, and expressing one’s thoughts and feelings, there are other ways to help ease stress associated with family caregiving.
“As we transition from one of the most stressful seasons to begin a new year, I hope you find the following practical insights and tips to be helpful in reducing or managing stress,” said Dr. Catherine Onuoha of Compassionate Home Care Partners of Polk County Florida.
Capacity – Family members generally have good intentions; however, commitments such as family, work, coaching/community service make it difficult for caregivers to give their loved one’s their full attention at all times. A common complaint is that there are not enough hours in the day. Many caregivers expect to be needed on a part-time basis, but their involvement may quickly become full-time (and stressful). Our advice is to know your limits. As the Caregiver Bill of Rights indicates, it is important for family caregivers to recognize their responsibilities as well as their limitations. Caregivers that overextend themselves and become exhausted are of little value to the person for whom they are caring. Look for ways to share the responsibility with family, friends and home care agencies, such as Compassionate Home Care Partners.
Complement – Care receivers are generally most receptive to help and support when it is in harmony with their wishes and preferences. Likewise, some of the most stressful situations occur when family members impose their own values or think they know what’s best. We find that one of the easiest ways to reduce or minimize conflict (stress) is to ask and honor a loved one’s expressed wishes.
Compassion – Take time to consider the feelings of the care recipient. Many older adults indicate they do not want to be a burden on their family or friends, are frustrated by functional losses, and are used to doing things a certain way. Understanding life from the perspective of the care receiver can be quite valuable and help caregivers approach situations with increased compassion and understanding.
Companionship – While many family members focus on the tasks, such as preparing meals, providing a rides to appointments, helping to sort medications and lending a hand around the house,
be careful not to overlook the relational aspects associated with caregiving. As Andy Rooney is quoted as saying, “Under everyone’s hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.”
Compassionate Home Care Partners of Polk County Florida offers a complete continuum of home healthcare services, similar to the care and support often provided by family members. Services include non-medical care, companionship, personal care* and medical services*. Our flexible care plans are tailored to fit our clients’ specific needs and budgets. To learn more about Compassionate Home Care Partners and get answers to your question call us at (863) 271-7776.
