How can I feel less burdened by my caregiver responsibilities?

Try to change the way you perceive your caregiving role from one of burden to one of gratitude for the experience. Changing your perception will cause you to, consciously or subconsciously, change your actions in order to align the two with each other. You must remember that it is absolutely imperative to take care of yourself and to continue to enjoy life. Do not feel guilty about those things that you do just for yourself. They will make you a happier person to be around. Do not become a martyr; it does nobody any good.

Caregiving is rewarding, fulfilling, gratifying and can be overwhelming and stressful especially for the sandwich generation families. Below are some tips that can help alleviate caregiving burden:

• Ask for help and self-care is imperative.
• For women, who are 65% caregivers, they want to do it all and feel guilty when they can't do it all. 
• Get exercise — make it a priority for both your mental and physical well being.
• Get regular check-ups and do not ignore possible symptoms of ill health.
• Take a break from caregiving – involve grown kids, siblings, church and neighbors 
• Stay involved in hobbies and laugh with a friend, join a caregivers support group