How To Avoid Burnout As A Caregiver

While it may seem like a simple job for some, caregiving is one of the toughest and demanding jobs today. It becomes even harder if you are the only caregiver for your grandchild, parent, spouse, or any other loved one. There is an increased risk of contracting a health condition from simply undertaking the stressful caregiving duties alone. Although the responsibilities might be stressful, caregiving can be extremely rewarding especially if you have the right knowledge, support, and self-care tactics. Outlined below are a few things you need to know about caregiving.

How To Avoid Burnout As A Caregiver

1. It’s an Overwhelming Job with No Pay

Among other tasks, it is a caregiver’s responsibility to prepare meals, bath the person he/she is caring for, escort them to a doctor’s clinic, as well as ensure they take the medicines on time. It is considered one of the fastest growing profession where the caregiver doesn’t get any form of payment. Caregivers in the United Kingdom rarely get paid for services rendered, and that’s why some people opt for those who can provide live in care. If you’re looking for live in care in Wokingham, there are services in the area that can help.

2. It is stressful

The responsibilities that come with caregiving can take a toll on your emotional and physical health. It’s easy for one to forget about him/herself as a caregiver hence neglecting his/her health. One of the greatest burdens of caregiving is the mental strain that one has to deal with. According to research, approximately 35% of caregivers taking care of dementia patients experience high levels of stress and suffer from depression. Many of these live on anti-anxiety and antidepressant drugs among other similar medications. If these issues are left unaddressed, severe depression could set in. The caregiver’s physical and mental health should … Continue reading >>>

Period Properties – How To Update Them

An older home is filled with character and charm; however, if you live in a period property there will be things in your home that you want to update. In order to ensure that your home keeps its character, you must find the perfect balance of modern amenities with the character and charm that made you fall in love with your home in the beginning.

Period Properties - How To Update Them

1. Insulation

Most period homes were not properly insulated, which can impact the amount of money it costs to properly heat and cool your home. Additionally, improperly insulated homes negatively impact the environment and increase your home’s carbon footprint. Heat loss in your home occurs in five areas, including:

  • Draughts – 30 per cent heat loss
  • Walls – 25 per cent heat loss
  • Glass (windows) – 20 per cent heat loss
  • Floors – 15 per cent heat loss
  • Loft – 10 per cent heat loss

In order to prevent moisture issues and air quality issues, you should have a professional install the insulation in your home. If you decide to do it yourself, you need to wear protective clothing, goggles and a face mask to properly protect yourself.

2. Outdated Boilers

Replacing your old boiler is expensive; however, it can save you a lot of money. A high-efficiency boiler is 85 per cent efficient. Old G-rated boilers were 65 per cent or less efficient. A new high-efficiency boiler costs approximately £2,500; however, you can save approximately £235 annually on your heating bills.

3. Outdated Electrical Systems

Outdated electrical systems are not only inconvenient, but they can also pose a safety hazard by increasing the risk of fire and electrical shock. Older homes were built before electrical systems were inspected. If your home’s wiring is older than thirty years old, you should have your home rewiredContinue reading >>>

How To Update A Period Property

Old houses typically exude a certain charm and character that is hard to replicate with new buildings. However, if you live in a period house, you will appreciate the need to update a few things. To this end, the aim should be to strike the perfect balance between installing modern comfort features and retaining the charm and character that attracted you to the period house in the first place.

How To Update A Period Property

1. Poor Quality Insulation

The vast majority of old houses have poor insulation that leads to a huge carbon footprint and expensive bills. CosyHome Company reckons that a period home loses in 5 major ways:

  • Loft 10%
  • Floors 15%
  • Glass 20%
  • Walls 25%
  • Draughts 30%

You should consider updating the insulation to your home. Preferably, you should have the insulation professionally installed to ensure quality workmanship – they can use floor plan software to ensure they carry out the job correctly. For instance, opting for professional installation with high-quality craftsmanship ensure you negate air quality problems and moisture-related problems.

2. Replace The Boiler

Replacing an old boiler is an expensive endeavour, but a necessary one nonetheless. Whilst investing in a new boiler, opt for a high-quality high-efficiency condensing boiler. This particular type of boilers typically converts at least 86% of the fuel input into heat. Older G-rated boilers are less efficient as they convert about 65% of the input. According to The Guardian, while the initial cost of a high-quality boiler can be as high as £2,500, it could save you as much as £235 annually.

3. Outdated Electrical System

Outdated electrical systems are a fire and electrical shock hazard. Additionally, their inefficiencies also make them very inconvenient to use. Period houses were most likely built before electrical systems for residential properties were a must. Real Homes reckon … Continue reading >>>