Often this role comes on without warning or preparation. When a parent or loved one becomes in need of long-term care, relationships shift. A parent may come to seem like a child. Chronic depression displaces good spirits in a formerly fun-loving partner. Physical and emotional limitations place you into a new and confusing relationship with a loved one.
Few people have the training of a hospice nurse.
In the face of these overwhelming issues, many caregivers expose themselves to repeated stress without any relief. They forget to take breaks and vacations or do other things that replenish their batteries, like exercise, massage, and meditation. They experience burnout, a feeling of depersonalization and general futility regarding life. The best way to avoid such burnout is to plan moments of relief from the constant demands of giving care. Out of a sense of responsibility, if nothing else, every caregiver should find opportunities to stimulate the immune system, regain perspective, and enrich the spirit through small, pleasurable activities.