Combating caregiver burnout

Are you feeling a bit overburdened lately? Tired all the time? Finding it more difficult to take care of both a loved one and yourself?

You’re not alone. Nationally, the average age of caregivers is 49.2 years, with one-third of caregivers age 65 or older, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP. As we grow older, our energy levels decline. We get tired easier than we did in our 20s and 30s and it’s easier to feel burned out more quickly. That’s why self-care is so important for caregivers. Here are some important ways to take care of yourself, so you can take good care of a loved one:

Focus on healthy foods. It’s easy when you’re short on time and/or under a lot of stress to rely on fast food, junk food and to make other unhealthy food choices. But a poor diet doesn’t provide the nutrients and energy we need to power through each day. As we get older, making healthy food choices can help us not only feel and look better but also helps us prevent and manage chronic health conditions. But we’re not talking about just cutting calories. We’re talking about eating more whole grains, fruits, vegetables and nuts and getting enough protein and fiber. As you get older, every bite counts and a quality diet not only can have a dramatic effect upon our energy levels, it can significantly improve our state of mind as well.

Make a commitment to regular exercise. Any amount of activity is beneficial, but regular and moderate exercise is key. Talk to your physician about how much exercise can help you live a healthier life, which type of activity most suits you and the best way to ease into a regular exercise routine that includes both heart-pumping activity and weight-bearing exercise. Both are vitally important as you age to remain active and healthy.

Get help. Too often, the health and well-being of caregivers takes a back seat to the care of a loved one. That’s where breaks can make a big difference. Respite care is short-term relief for primary caregivers. It can be as needed or scheduled each week. Either way, it’s critical.

Seek reliable advice. — Your primary care provider can be a great place to start to figure out how to feel your best. He or she can help you assess your diet and exercise, set realistic health and wellness goals and help you better manage stress. A caregiving support group can help you connect with others who are in similar situations and can understand what you’re going through.