DeGuardian Health Agency

Support for Family Caregivers

If you are caring for an aging parent, a spouse with dementia, or a recovering family member, you are doing one of the hardest jobs there is. We can help.

You Don't Have to Do This Alone

Most of the families who call us aren't sure what they need. They're exhausted. They're worried they're not doing enough. They're afraid that asking for help means they've failed.

They haven't failed. They've reached the point where one person can't safely do everything alone — and recognizing that is the first step toward better care for their loved one and for themselves.

Common Signs of Caregiver Burnout

  • Constant fatigue, even after sleep
  • Irritability or anger that surprises you
  • Withdrawing from friends and activities you used to enjoy
  • Getting sick more often than usual
  • Trouble concentrating or making decisions
  • Feeling resentful, then guilty for feeling resentful
  • Missing your own medical appointments
  • Drinking more, eating less (or more), sleeping poorly
  • Thoughts of "I can't keep doing this"

If you recognize several of these, please talk to your own doctor — and consider whether professional support at home could give you back some capacity.

How We Help Family Caregivers

Respite Care

A trained caregiver covers a few hours, a full day, or overnight while you rest, run errands, or simply take time for yourself. Many families start with 4 to 8 hours per week.

Daily Personal Care Coverage

We take over the most physically demanding tasks — bathing, transfers, toileting — so you can focus on companionship, conversation, and quality time.

Nighttime and Weekend Coverage

Many family caregivers can manage the day if they can sleep at night. Overnight caregivers handle nighttime needs so you wake up rested.

Dementia-Specific Support

Caring for someone with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia is its own kind of hard. Our dementia-trained caregivers know how to redirect, soothe, and manage difficult moments so you don't have to handle every behavior on your own.

Free Resources for Family Caregivers

  • Texas Health and Human Services — Area Agencies on Aging — statewide network offering caregiver support programs.
  • Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline — 1-800-272-3900, free support for dementia caregivers any time of day.
  • VA Caregiver Support Program — services for caregivers of eligible veterans.
  • Family Caregiver Alliance — national nonprofit with practical guides and resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of caregiver burnout?

Common signs include constant exhaustion, irritability or anger that surprises you, withdrawal from friends and activities you used to enjoy, frequent illness, changes in sleep or appetite, increased use of alcohol or other substances, and feelings of hopelessness about the future.

What is respite care?

Respite care is temporary professional care for your loved one so you can rest, run errands, travel, or simply take time for yourself. It can be a few hours a week, a full day, overnight, or longer stretches. Respite care is one of the most effective tools for preventing burnout.

How do I know when it's time to bring in professional help?

Common turning points include: your loved one's needs exceed what one person can safely manage; you're missing your own medical appointments to provide care; family relationships are strained; you cannot work or are losing income; or you are physically injuring yourself doing transfers or lifts.

Will my loved one resent having a professional caregiver?

Many families worry about this, but in our experience, most patients adjust within a few visits — especially if the caregiver is well-matched. A good caregiver becomes a trusted presence in the home, and many patients form genuine friendships. Starting with shorter visits and building up often eases the transition.

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