Caring for an aging loved one can be a challenging task. Family caregivers often compromise their own health and happiness to provide the best possible care for their loved ones. Professional respite caregivers can give family caregivers a much-needed break so they can restore their energy and renew their dedication to their loved ones.
Families who need help caring for a senior loved one can turn to Align Home Care, a leading provider of Portland home care. Services available in our customizable care plans include meal prep, mental and social stimulation, assistance with personal hygiene tasks, and much more. Here are a few reasons family caregivers should consider hiring professional respite care.
1. Relax
Providing ongoing care to an aging loved one can be stressful at times. You might be constantly worrying about your loved one’s health, finances, and social life. Hiring a respite caregiver gives you time to relax and unwind.
2. Energize
Caregiving can be a demanding job, and it may make you feel constantly tired throughout the day. Spending just a few hours a week on yourself gives you time to restore your energy levels. A tired and overworked caregiver is unlikely to provide high-quality care for a senior loved one.
3. Enhance Relationships
Spending too much time together can damage a relationship. Taking breaks can do you good, but you might miss your loved one as well. Caregivers often plan fun activities once they are back with their loved ones to make up for lost time, which can enhance their relationship.
4. Get a Fresh Perspective
A caregiver who doesn’t have enough free time may find it difficult to get a fresh perspective on the situation. Taking a step back and rethinking your duties allows you to make positive changes in your life as well as your loved one’s life.
If you are the primary caregiver for a senior family member and you need respite care, Portland, Maine, Align Home Care is here to help. Our respite caregivers are trained to assist older adults with a wide variety of everyday tasks, including meal prep, physical activity, and personal hygiene. We also provide 24-hour care and specialized care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s.
5. Rediscover Identity
After months or years of providing care to your loved one, you may feel as if your identity is wrapped up in being a caregiver. Not only is this frustrating, but it can also have an impact on the quality of care you provide. When you take a break, you may realize you are a unique individual with your own hobbies, interests, and goals.
6. Move Forward with Life
Respite services are good for your emotional wellbeing, and they can also be practical. Hiring a respite caregiver allows you to tend to other important tasks such as shopping for new clothes, buying groceries, or running to the DMV.
7. Engage with Peers
One of the most challenging aspects of being a family caregiver is to keep social isolation at bay. Due to the caregiving duties, you might realize your friendships and other personal relationships are falling apart. Failing to socialize with your peers can increase your risk of depression and other emotional health disorders.
Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Portland live-in care experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or is recovering from a stroke, you can trust in professional live-in caregivers to enhance his or her quality of life. If you need a break from your caregiving duties, contact Align Home Care at (207) 835-3490 today.