National Caregivers Day Is Feb. 20: Here’s How Caregivers Can Find Support

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — Feb. 20 marks National Caregivers Day, a day that honors individuals who selflessly provide personal care and physical and emotional support to others.

Being a full-time caregiver is a lot of work and can lead to a condition called caregiver burnout. Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion that happens while you’re taking care of someone else. Caregivers may experience fatigue, anxiety and depression. Studies estimate that up to 60% of caregivers experience burnout at some point.

Caring for others can be exhausting and is often a 24/7 job, leaving those who provide care feeling isolated and lacking support themselves. Experts say that it’s essential for caregivers to take care of themselves, too.

Calvert County’s Office on Aging suggests that caregivers intentionally and regularly practice self-care, which is in the interest of both the caregiver and the person being cared for. Suggestions include setting healthy boundaries, learning to say no, prioritizing your own needs and giving the same grace to yourself as you would to others.

Self-care is often easier said than done. Many people lack the resources and time to access support systems, if they’re available. But leaning on others around you is one of the best ways to care for yourself, even if it’s just a few minutes a day.

• The Office on Aging also suggests taking some of the following steps to access support:
• Consider attending the senior centers in Calvert County. Many of the programs are for adults 50 and older. If possible, bring the person you are caring for and join an activity together.
• Join a support group.
• Get supportive counseling.
• Make an appointment with the Office on Aging for a free caregiver consultation to learn what resources may be available to you.

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