If you’re the primary caregiver for an elderly or disabled family member, you may feel as though your efforts are never enough. These feelings of guilt can persist despite how much you do for your loved one and might leave you feeling even more stressed out at the end of the day. Here are a few ways to avoid those feelings of guilt. 

3 Ways to Manage Caregiver Guilt

1. Seek Support From Friends & Family

Providing care is mentally and physically exhausting. Emotional support is key in this case, as you may feel isolated and alone after spending many hours helping your relative see to their needs. Even just talking to friends and family about how you’re feeling can alleviate a great deal of guilt, as well as put your efforts into perspective. 

2. Establish Clear Boundaries

It’s natural that you want to do everything you can for your loved one. Keep in mind that you’re only human, which means you can only do so much for your family member. This is why it’s helpful to establish clear boundaries. For example, make time to care for yourself and do the things you love, whether it’s crafting, yoga, or taking a peaceful walk in the park. When you’re mentally and emotionally healthy, you can provide better care to others. 

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

In the same token, don’t be afraid to reach out to others if you need help. Ask other family members if they can pitch in to give you some time off, even if it’s just a few afternoons a week. If your loved one has more advanced needs, you may also consider scheduling home health care, which grants peace of mind to families. 

If you need a professional caregiver in and around St. Louis, Berkeley, or St. Charles, MO, Deer Valley Home Health Services can help. Established in 2005, this home health care agency supports local families and provides safe and reliable assistance, including personal in-home care, which covers light housekeeping, meal preparation, grooming and bathing, and medication administration. Call (314) 355-3679 today to schedule a consultation. If you want to learn more about their services, visit their website.