“If you’re traveling with someone who requires assistance, secure your mask first, then help the other person.” 

That’s the familiar reminder flight attendants always give before takeoff. Similar sounding advice applies if you’re a caregiver for an aging parent or other loved one: secure your own self-care first. It will help prevent burnout and give you the energy to be the best caregiver you can be.

Here’s how to know the signs of caregiver burnout, how to prevent it and what to do if you do find yourself burning out, despite your best intentions.

Recognizing the Signs of Burnout

Over 48 million Americans care for their elderly parents, according to The AARP. Many of these caregivers find themselves balancing their own lives and families while also caring for aging parents. And that can add up to a lot of responsibilities. It’s important to recognize if and when the pressures of those responsibilities may be getting to be too much.

There are some tell-tale signs that burnout may be on the horizon:

• Finding yourself less patient than usual
• Feeling overwhelmed with tasks that used to be manageable
• Seeing physical changes in your appearance and energy levels
• Finding yourself constantly postponing your own medical appointments
• Experiencing sleep disturbances or changes in eating patterns

Preventing Burnout

Caregiver burnout is common. But there are steps you can take to minimize the chance of it happening to you. It's really about the basics of self-care. That includes:

• Getting enough sleep
• Maintaining a healthy diet
• Taking walks or getting other exercise
• Using technology to help manage caregiving responsibilities
• Setting up digital reminders for medications and appointments using smartphone apps like CareZone or Medisafe
• Creating boundaries by scheduling dedicated "me time" in your calendar
• Joining online caregiver communities for emotional support and practical advice
• Simply taking time for yourself

What to Do If You’re Experiencing Burnout

Of course, it’s best if you can avoid burnout altogether. However, that’s not always possible. 

When faced with something like a loved one's hospitalization, caregivers often forget their own needs. You might find yourself spending days at the hospital, forgetting to eat or sleep properly while focusing entirely on your loved one.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, try to carve some time out. Get away, even if it’s for a walk around the block or to the cafeteria in the care center. Just removing yourself from the immediate situation can help.

For longer-term situations, consider the following options:

• Joining a support group, especially if you’re caring for a loved one with dementia or Parkinson’s.
• Looking into respite care for your loved one, which many senior living communities offer. 
• Hiring a personal care worker to help with errands like grocery shopping, or as a companion to your loved one.
• Using grocery and prescription delivery services to reduce your errand load
• Exploring telehealth options that allow your loved one to see healthcare providers from home
• Taking advantage of virtual assistance devices like Amazon Echo or Google Home to help your loved one with reminders and communication
• Looking into adult day programs at communities like those managed by The Goodman Group that offer engaging activities for seniors while providing caregivers with valuable time for self-care

Most senior living communities, senior centers, and places of worship can help you find reputable services to help you be a well-balanced, healthy caregiver for your loved one.

At The Goodman Group's managed senior living communities, we understand the delicate balance caregivers maintain. Sometimes, senior living communities are an option that can provide the professional care your loved one needs while giving family caregivers peace of mind and the opportunity to focus on their relationship rather than caregiving tasks.

Remember that prioritizing your wellness is essential for providing quality care to the person who needs you. By maintaining your health and independence, you're better positioned to support your loved one's independence, too.