How to Manage Feeling Unappreciated as a Caregiver

These three simple steps can help if you’re feeling unappreciated as a caregiver.

From the moment you started your day until its end, you’ve dedicated yourself entirely to the well-being of an older loved one. Your tasks ranged from assisting with daily activities to managing appointments and household chores, all performed with love and dedication. Yet, the acknowledgment you deserve is often absent, leaving you feeling unappreciated as a caregiver. Left unchecked, this can lead to caregiver burnout or depression.

If you’re experiencing this, know that you’re not alone. Here are some tips to help navigate and address the challenge of feeling unappreciated in your caregiving role.

1. Practice Self-Appreciation:

Acknowledge the importance of the work you’re doing and prioritize self-appreciation. Take a moment each week to reward yourself for a job well done. It could be as simple as enjoying an hour of reading on the porch swing or indulging in a treat from your favorite bakery. Plan for larger rewards, like a weekend getaway, by utilizing respite care services from a trusted partner such as Hired Hands Homecare.

2. Model Appreciative Behavior:

Lead by example and demonstrate the impact of expressing gratitude. Sincerely thank the person in your care whenever they contribute, no matter how small the task. Whether it’s folding a towel, wiping the table, or assisting with groceries, expressing appreciation can set the tone for a more mutually appreciative relationship.

3. Understand Their Perspective:

Consider the perspective of the older adult. Factors such as dementia or other chronic conditions might be influencing their ability to express gratitude. They may be preoccupied with their own challenges or find daily tasks more demanding. By empathizing and understanding their point of view, you can better cope with the absence of verbal appreciation without assuming ingratitude.

Beyond these tips, remember that self-care is crucial for preventing burnout. Hired Hands Homecare is here to share in your caregiving duties, offering support to alleviate stress and provide you with regular breaks. Our services cover various aspects of care, including meals, housekeeping, personal care, transportation, medication reminders, companionship, and more. Tailored to each individual’s unique needs, our caregiving services ensure both you and a senior loved one receive the care you both deserve.

Contact Hired Hands Homecare for a free in-home consultation and let us know how we can assist. Whether you need occasional respite care or ongoing support, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy balance between caregiving and self-care. Call us today at (866) 940-4343 to learn more about our in-home care services in Novato, Pleasanton, Napa, and the surrounding areas.