Help for Caregivers

Asking for Help: A Sign of Strength for Caregivers 

by Sarah Martin

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is one of the most selfless and noble acts a person can undertake. Yet, it is also one of the most challenging. Many caregivers express a deep sense of commitment, often tied to the vows they made to their spouse –“for better or for worse”– never realizing that the final years of their loved one’s life, which should be filled with love and cherished moments, can instead become some of the most difficult.

One of the biggest struggles caregivers face is the belief that they must handle everything alone. They often feel guilty, as though asking for help means they are failing the person they love. Many have spent their entire lives taking care of others, and the idea of reaching out for support can feel foreign or even like a personal shortcoming. However, the truth is that asking for help is not a sign of weakness – it is an incredible display of strength.

Recognizing the Signs of Caregiver Burnout

Caregiver stress can take a serious toll on both physical and emotional health. If you are experiencing any of the following, it may be time to seek support:

• Feelings of depression or isolation

• Insomnia or extreme fatigue

• Unexplained anger or frustration

• Physical health issues related to stress

• Overwhelming exhaustion or anxiety

Failing to reach out for help can lead to caregiver burnout, a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that can also bring feelings of resentment. Many caregivers find themselves losing their sense of identity, as friendships, hobbies, and personal time fade into the background of their caregiving role.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

There are many ways to seek support, whether through friends, church communities, caregiver support groups, or adult day centers. An adult day center, like Our PLACE, is an excellent option that provides a safe and nurturing environment for loved ones while giving caregivers much-needed respite time. This break allows caregivers to reclaim their sense of self, engage in activities they enjoy, and maintain their own well-being – all while knowing their loved one is receiving quality care.

How Our PLACE Can Help

At Our PLACE, we support adults who are mildly to moderately impaired by Alzheimer’s or dementia. Because the progression of these diseases varies, the window of time when someone can safely and successfully attend a day program can be limited. We encourage families to reach out sooner rather than later to ensure their loved one can benefit from our services.

To qualify for Our PLACE, participants must:

• Be ambulatory (able to walk with or without assistance, such as a cane or walker)

• Manage their own continence needs

• Cooperate in a group setting and adhere to behavioral norms

One common reason families delay seeking help is financial concern. However, there are multiple funding options available, including support through VA benefits, TennCare Choices, long-term care insurance, and scholarships. Our scholarships are made possible through the generous support of multiple organizations and funding sources. We do not want cost to be a barrier for any family in need.

Take the First Step – We Are Here for You

Caregiving is a journey, and no one should have to walk it alone. Seeking support is not giving up – it is making sure both you and your loved one receive the care you deserve. If you are feeling overwhelmed, please reach out. Let us help you find the support and resources you need to continue providing the best care possible.

For more information, or to see how Our PLACE can support you and your loved one, please contact us today at (865) 657-7222 or email director@ourplacetn.org. You are not alone, and asking for help is one of the strongest things you can do.

Sarah Martin