The population of the United States is aging and that fact is increasing the need for in home assistance for seniors. The baby boomers are getting older but the parents of baby boomers, another large group in our country, are already there. The incidence of many children caring for one or both of their parents is on the rise and of course the aging of the boomers will make this number go even higher. Since many people involved in care giving have full time jobs they can be highly susceptible to caregiver burnout.

The signs of burnout are very similar to those of depression. Lack of sleep or too much sleep, along with having little energy can be an indication that the added responsibility is wearing you down. A change in eating habits, losing or gaining weight and loss of interest in things you like are all possible signs that you may need a break with all your duties.

Asking for help and finding a support group can be a great aide to relieving some of your stress. A visit to your doctor can help provide some direction on beating that stress associated with your care giving duties. Your doctor can provide direction regarding diet and exercise plans that you can follow and make suggestions on adding multi vitamins and other nutritional supplements.

We at The Wilsonville can understand why you are putting forth this great effort. We have apartments available for seniors that want to keep their independence. Providing full time care for your loved ones may be more than you and a home health aide can manage. It’s important to know that there are alternative solutions at The Wilsonville that can simplify care and make independent living possible for your elderly loved ones.