Stress & Caregiving

Caregiver Stress: Pitfalls to Avoid

Caring for an individual with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia can be challenging and, at times, overwhelming. It is important for the caregiver to find some time away from the care giving situation to care for themselves and avoid the pitfalls of frustration and stress.

Frustration and stress may negatively impact the caregiver’s health or cause them to be physically or mentally aggressive towards their loved one. When you are frustrated it is important to distinguish between what is and what is not within your power to change. As a caregiver of someone with dementia, you face many uncontrollable situations. There is not much you can change about the patient’s behaviors because he or she has lost the ability to distinguish between what is appropriate and non-appropriate.

Normal daily routines - dressing, bathing, and eating – become sources of deep frustration for the caregiver. Behaviors related to the diagnosis of dementia like wandering or asking questions repeatedly are also frustrating and sources of stress. Unfortunately, the disconnection from time, place, and routine cannot be repaired in the person suffering from dementia.

So what does the caregiver do to avoid the pitfalls of frustration and stress?
Learn to recognize the warning signs of frustration and stress then adjust your mood before you lose control. Some of the warning signs include shortness of breath, tightness in the throat, stomach cramps, chest pains, headache, compulsive eating, increased smoking, and lack of patience.

To control these, you can try calling a friend, praying, meditating, singing, listening to music, or taking a bath. Try experimenting with different responses to find out what
works best for you.

While it is difficult to find time to focus on yourself, it is very important that you do so to prevent frustration and burnout. Sharing your feelings with a counselor, pastor, or support group or with another caregiver in a similar situation can be a great way to release stress and get helpful advice.

For information regarding times and locations of Caregiver Network Groups, call Alzheimer's Services of the Capital Area, (225) 334-7494 or (800) 548-1211.