Five signs it can be time to seek assistance in caring for your loved one

Caring for a loved one with any kind of condition can be both rewarding and challenging in equal measure. But they’re your loved one and you’ll do anything for them. 

Whether you’re supporting an elderly parent, a partner with a chronic illness or a family member with a neuro disability or mental health condition the journey can be emotional, physical and take up a lot of mental expenditure. Many caregivers can find it tough, requiring respite or seeking full-time care for a loved one through the likes of a care home or acute care unit.

Making the decision to seek assistance in caring for your loved one, whether it be through extra support or seeking full-time care in a home for them is never an easy decision. But there could well be signs it’s time to start at the very least considering it. So, what exactly should you look out for?

What’s incredibly important in caring for a loved one is that not only do you look after them, but you also look after yourself. If you find you’re regularly exhausted or struggling with your own physical or mental health, then that is a big red flag that you need more help.

Burnout is incredibly common among caregivers, especially for those that are balancing other responsibilities too, such as work or family.

Your ability to care for your loved one is tied to your own wellbeing and if you’re finding your wellbeing is declining, considering help is a good option. That may be temporary through respite care, or you may wish to consider more permanent care services, support groups or getting help from other family members. Essentially, you need to prioritise your own health to ensure your loved one gets the best care possible.

Unfortunately, you may find that your loved one’s needs increase over time and it becomes more difficult to manage their care on your own. Caregiving responsibilities can evolve rapidly in some cases and that can put their safety and comfort in a more precarious position without professional help and round the clock support. Seeking help in a care facility can ensure they get the specialised attention they need.

It’s important to regularly check-in with your loved one’s condition and ask the question whether they’re getting the right care for what they need. If that begins to change, it could be time to consider help.

Caring for a loved one can place a strain on relationships, both with the person you’re caring for and with others in your life. You may find yourself becoming impatient, irritable, or resentful, which can lead to conflict or guilt. Relationships with your partner, children, or friends may also suffer as caregiving consumes more of your time and energy.

Recognising these signs is essential. Resentment and burnout can harm your relationship with the person you’re trying to help. Bringing in assistance, such as a part-time caregiver or respite care, can relieve some of the tension and allow you to focus on maintaining a positive connection with your loved one.

If you’re worried about your loved one’s safety, it’s a strong sign that additional help is needed. This could include concerns about their ability to move around the house without falling, take their medication correctly, or maintain basic hygiene. If you’re feeling overwhelmed trying to prevent accidents or manage their day-to-day needs, professional caregivers can provide the expertise and consistency required to ensure their safety.

Admitting that you need help doesn’t mean you’ve failed; rather, it demonstrates a commitment to keeping your loved one secure and well-cared for.

Caring for someone often involves navigating complex financial, legal, and medical decisions. From managing insurance claims and handling estate planning to coordinating multiple medical appointments, these responsibilities can become overwhelming.

Professional assistance, such as working with a care manager or elder law attorney, can provide guidance in managing these challenges. Similarly, hiring a professional caregiver can free up time to focus on these important administrative tasks while ensuring your loved one’s immediate needs are met.

Recognising the need for help is not a sign of weakness; it is an act of strength and love. Whether it’s hiring professional caregivers, joining a support group, or exploring assisted living options, seeking support can benefit both you and your loved one.

Start by reaching out to local care agencies or charities that specialise in providing resources for caregivers. Often, these organisations can offer tailored advice, financial assistance, and practical solutions. Speaking to other family members and friends can also help share the caregiving burden.