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Sadcat Asked January 2016

12 years as full-time caregiver. I find self depressed, overwhelmed and have no time for myself, friends or hobbies. Advice?

12 yrs ft caregiver 2 my parents & also ft private 1 also. I feel. I'm alone @this, no help from any family. Am a diabetic now 4 a year now, that's not helping, can't get number down & hardly eat sugar. I'm extremely tired, worn out, can't get enough sleep. I feel no one understands,I haven't been to church in months. I'm all alone on this so long journey. All the support group conflict with my work isn't there one that can help that understands me???

Twizard Jan 2016
Sadcat, sugar isn't the only thing that can spike your number. Rice can, potatoes stored in fridge, white bread, processed meats (salami, cold cuts, sausages), whole milk, fast food, breaded fried foods, all can spike that blood sugar level. Whole milk causes insulin resistance.

Also, you really need to make some time for yourself. If your health breaks down, you can't care for anyone. Please talk to your local resources, whether senior advocates, pastor, senior center, social worker, etc. There may be some relief or resources you aren't aware of. And, take at least 3 hours a week, just to do something kind for yourself. Find a relaxed no hobby or take a walk, or paint, something. Your work and home work are too similar, so it feels like you are working 24/7/365.

sandwich42plus Jan 2016
I don't think you can get 911 to come to a call with "my parents are old and I'm tired".

You can make a plan to change things ASAP. Your area agency on aging - every county/state has one - can set you up with social services intake.
Your parents do need to be in full time care and the money will work itself out between Medicare, Medicaid, & the bank. It not YOUR money involved.

Of course you are tired. You don't have the luxury of self-neglect with diabetes. Taking care of your body with good diet, sleep, low stress, and exercise is MANDATORY unless you want to beat your parents to the funeral home.

A social worker can do a care assessment to determine your parents' need level and help you figure out what facilities can take them, hopefully together. Plan for their need level to increase and a place that can handle it.

One thing at a time.

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cat6214 Jan 2016
You need to get help right away. NOW! If your parents are on Medicare call 911 NOW and get them both admitted to a hospital for tests. Once they are both admitted you have 24-48 hours to get your wits back. Ask the hospital to get you a social worker who can help you with care solutions. But you need help now.

Rapsody Jan 2016
Such thoughts remind me depression, know what it means, the important thing is to act psychcentral/blog/archives/2016/01/03/10-tips-to-change-your-mood/

pamstegma Jan 2016
Two full time jobs like that would wear anyone down. It would also affect your insulin needs. Please get a complete physical and maybe think about some vacation time. Soon.

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