Caregiving is a rewarding, but demanding role. While many caregivers say that the role provides them with a sense of purpose, it is not without its trials and stressful moments. At Beacon Hill, in addition to our comfortable independent living residences and on-site health services, we offer residential respite care to accommodate unpaid caregivers and their loved ones. Read on to learn more.
Are you suffering from caregiver burnout?
When serving as caregiver, it might feel like caring for your loved one is all-consuming. It can be easy to let your health take the backseat while you prioritize the needs of your loved one. In fact, 23 percent of unpaid caregivers say that caregiving has made it difficult to take care of their own health. However, the de-prioritization of your own well-being can quickly take a toll on you and your loved one alike, resulting in caregiver burnout.
Caregiver burnout is defined by the Cleveland Clinic as “a state of physical, mental and emotional exhaustion” experienced by caregivers. Often, caregiver burnout can include anxiety, depression or fatigue. Other telltale signs of caregiver burnout include:
- Emotional and physical fatigue or exhaustion
- Changes to sleep patterns
- Loss of interest in activities you enjoy
- Feelings of depression, irritability or hopelessness
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Physical pain or frequent headaches
If you are experiencing caregiver burnout, or simply need a reprieve from caregiving responsibilities, there are many options available to you, including respite care.
Residential Respite Care Near Chicago
Respite care offers caregivers the chance to take a much-needed break while resting comfortably in the knowledge that their loved one is safe and well cared for. At Beacon Hill, we are happy to offer residential respite care services in our 5-star Health Center to older adults in DuPage County.
Respite care at Beacon Hill includes skilled nursing care available 24/7, delicious, chef-inspired meals and access to all the same services and amenities enjoyed by our full-time residents — including our outdoor putting green. A stay in respite care also presents the opportunity for you and your loved one to “try on” life at Beacon Hill — some respite care guests enjoy their stay here so much they decide to become full-time residents!
Perhaps you are ready for a break and understand the benefits of respite care, but your loved one isn’t sure they are on board. Our best advice? Talk frequently and honestly about the possibility of respite care, so there is plenty of time for both of you to voice your opinions and reach the decision together. Here are a few strategies to help facilitate a discussion about respite care:
- Be honest. Speak kindly and candidly about how both of you are feeling. Remember that you both want what is best for each other.
- Be specific. Respite care is temporary. Discussing the exact duration of respite care and the specifics of what your loved one can expect from a community can make it easier to envision respite care as a viable and attractive option.
- Talk as a family. Include other family members or those whose opinion your loved one values in the discussion. Having multiple viewpoints can help facilitate a positive conversation.
- Focus on the care. Of course you take good care of your loved one, but chances are you aren’t a caregiver by training. Residential respite care providers are trained, compassionate professionals.
Overcome Obstacles to Respite Care
Even if you see the value of respite care, there might still be obstacles in the way. In addition to engaging in honesty conversation, consider the following to help overcome common objections or roadblocks:
- Lean on first-hand experience. Taking a tour of the community or connecting with someone who has enjoyed a respite care stay can help make respite care seem more approachable.
- Seek support. Connect with other caregivers to hear their experiences, gain a fresh perspective and remind yourself you are not alone.
- Be patient. Your loved one probably doesn’t want to feel like other people are making decisions for them. Try to be patient and understanding as you have conversations and work through obstacles together.
If you or a loved one would like to tour our community or learn more about the respite care services we offer, please fill out the form below or call us at 630-620-5850.
