Caregiver Burnout – Saving the “Other” Patient

Your patient is not the only one who is suffering. Their caregiver is suffering too. And soon, you may have another patient on your hands. You have probably not been the primary caregiver yourself since have been busy helping other people’s families. But I can tell you from personal experience that caregiving can become so overwhelming that I could barely get up and function. There is a profound sense of isolation, fatigue and helplessness that destroys the caregiver. I am an extremely capable and competent person, and if can fall apart due to caregiver stress, then anyone can.

Signs of caregiver stress and burnout:

• Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion

• Fatigue, stress, anxiety, and depression

• Accompanied by a change in attitude – from positive and caring to negative and unconcerned If the loved one who is usually supportive and interactive during the patient’s appointment becomes withdrawn and passive, you may have a person in crisis in front of you.

Why do caregivers burnout?

• Don’t get the help they need, or if they are doing more than they are able, physically or financially

• May become ill themselves

• May feel guilty if they spend time on themselves

• May have to quit job to stay home

• May go bankrupt, both financially and emotionally

If you let the caregiver crash, then the patient is at risk. They both need your help.

What can you do?

1. You can order home health support to get them through this crisis. You can order a visiting nurse, medical equipment or someone to go out and evaluate the situation.

2. Many insurance companies now have patient support systems in place. Find out what is available and have the numbers ready to give to your patients.

3. Create a local resource handout that you can give to your patients. The social worker at your hospital already knows what resources are available in your town and can give you a list of people the family can call. This can also include resources for patients to get discounted drugs from the pharmaceutical companies.

4. There are also free organizations you can recommend in most communities such as meals on wheels, dial a ride and volunteers with groups such as the American Cancer Society.

Did you know that if you put a patient who has been married for a long time on hospice, their spouse is less likely to die within a year of the patient’s death? You truly have the power to heal and save more people than you realize. Take the time to reach out and provide the support people need.

Have a kind and respectful day.

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