Home Care Advisory Group Helps Relieve Caregiver Burnout Amid Rising Concerns

Caregivers often neglect their own needs to take care of special needs family members, studies show. Unfortunately, this can lead to long-term health issues and reduce the quality of care they provide; and mental health professionals are sounding the alarm as they're noticing a pattern of burnout among long-term caregivers. Home Care Advisory Group, a New York advocacy service, can help caretakers get much-needed respite care and other benefits to improve their own quality of life, as well as their loved ones with developmental disabilities.

Caring Too Much

While caregiving can be very rewarding, it also takes an emotional and physical toll. Roughly half of caregivers say they experience increased emotional stress, and a third report physical strain from their duties, according to a recent article in U.S. News & World Report.

Additionally, 4 out of 10 caregivers reported they rarely or never feel at ease, according to the article. Many live in a continuous "fight or flight" state, which can limit their ability to care for their loved ones well. Depression, anxiety, and weakened immune systems are also symptoms of caregiver burnout.

Caring for Caregivers

Home Care Advisory Group can help caregivers access valuable support from the New York OPWDD, which offers programs designed to help families with members who have developmental disabilities like Down syndrome, autism, and more. The OPWDD offers respite care, which gives caregivers a temporary break while experts provide quality care for their loved ones. This respite gives caregivers opportunities to recharge, which helps them provide better overall care.

Caregivers can also access valuable training programs from OPWDD, including behavior management and emergency response. Building these skills can help caretakers provide better care and feel more in control in the home, improving the environment for all. The office also offers counseling and support groups for families, which can reduce stress and reduce feelings of isolation.

Home Care Advisory Group can help families with developmentally disabled members establish service eligibility with the state, including the application process. The advocacy group’s experts can help with paperwork like medical records and financial information. Once eligibility is determined, the group’s team members and service coordinators can help create a personalized care plan and navigate service options.

About Home Care Advisory Group

Home Care Advisory Group provides pediatric home health services to children with chronic illness, developmental disabilities, and intellectual disabilities throughout New York. The advisory group also helps families navigate state offices and requirements to access benefits and services. Their trusted advisors truly hear each client and help guide them through documentation, evaluations, and paperwork as they apply for and secure Medicaid services.

To learn more, visit https://homecareadvisory.org