The holiday season fills our homes with twinkling lights, beloved traditions, and precious time with family. But for the millions of Americans who care for an aging loved one, this time of year can also bring an overwhelming mix of stress, exhaustion, and guilt. If you're balancing caregiving responsibilities with holiday preparations, please know that you're not alone—and that help is available.
At BrightStar Care of Howard County, we understand the unique pressures family caregivers face, especially during the holidays. Our mission is to provide the support you need so you can find balance, experience joy, and create meaningful memories with your family.
The Growing Reality of Family Caregiving
The numbers are staggering. According to the 2025 Caregiving in the U.S. report, 63 million Americans—nearly 1 in 4 adults—are now serving as family caregivers. This represents a 45% increase since 2015. On average, caregivers spend 27 hours per week providing care, with nearly a quarter devoting 40 or more hours weekly—equivalent to a part-time or full-time job.
Most family caregivers are women in their 40s to 60s, often balancing careers, their own families, and the care of aging parents. Nearly 29% are part of the "sandwich generation," caring for both children and older adults simultaneously.
The emotional and physical toll is significant. More than 60% of family caregivers report experiencing high levels of stress, and nearly 40% feel emotionally drained. During the holidays, these pressures intensify as families juggle traditions, travel, hosting, and the daily demands of caregiving.
Recognizing the Signs of Caregiver Burnout
Burnout doesn't happen overnight. It builds gradually as the demands of caregiving accumulate without adequate rest and support.
Here are some warning signs to watch for:
- Physical exhaustion that doesn't improve with rest
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Irritability or impatience with your loved one or others
- Feelings of hopelessness or depression
- Neglecting your own health, skipping meals, or avoiding medical appointments
- Withdrawing from friends, activities, or hobbies you once enjoyed
- Forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating
If you recognize these signs in yourself, it's time to seek support. Taking care of yourself isn't selfish—it's essential to providing the best possible care for your loved one.
Why the Holidays Are Especially Hard
The holiday season amplifies caregiving challenges in several ways:
Increased Responsibilities
Between decorating, shopping, cooking, hosting, and maintaining caregiving routines, there simply aren't enough hours in the day. Something has to give—and too often, it's the caregiver's own well-being.
Financial Pressures
Gift-giving expectations and holiday expenses add strain to already tight budgets. Family caregivers spend an average of $7,200 per year out of pocket on caregiving expenses.
Emotional Complexity
Holidays can trigger grief, especially if your loved one has dementia or isn't the person they once were. Watching traditions change can be painful, even as you try to create joy for the family.
Family Dynamics
Gathering with extended family can bring judgment, conflict, or disappointment when others don't understand or share caregiving responsibilities.
Practical Strategies for Finding Relief
The good news is that with planning and support, you can create a more balanced holiday experience. Here are strategies that work:
Lower Your Expectations
This is perhaps the most important shift you can make. The holidays don't have to be perfect. Choose one or two traditions that matter most to you and your loved one, and let go of the rest. A smaller celebration filled with love is more meaningful than an elaborate event that leaves you exhausted.
Ask for Help—And Accept It
Reach out to family members, friends, neighbors, or your faith community. Be specific about what you need: "Could you pick up groceries on Tuesday?" or "Would you sit with Mom for two hours on Saturday?" Most people want to help but don't know how.
Plan for Care Coverage
If you're traveling or hosting, arrange for professional respite care in advance. BrightStar Care of Howard County offers flexible scheduling, including holiday and weekend coverage, so you can enjoy the season knowing your loved one is in capable hands.
Prioritize Self-Care
Schedule time for yourself, even if it's just 30 minutes a day. Take a walk, read a book, meet a friend for coffee, or simply sit in quiet. Protecting this time is essential to your health and resilience.
Set Boundaries
It's okay to say no. You don't have to host every gathering, attend every event, or meet everyone's expectations. Communicate your limits clearly and without guilt.
Simplify Holiday Meals
Consider potluck-style meals where everyone contributes. Order prepared foods from a local grocery store or restaurant. Focus on togetherness rather than culinary perfection.
Involve Your Loved One in Ways They Can Participate
Even if your loved one can't do what they once did, they can still participate in meaningful ways—folding napkins, listening to holiday music, looking through photo albums, or sharing stories. These moments of connection are the true heart of the season.
The Power of Respite Care
Respite care is one of the most valuable resources available to family caregivers, yet it's often underutilized. Respite services allow you to take breaks—whether for a few hours, a weekend, or longer—while knowing your loved one is receiving quality care.
Benefits of respite care include:
- Preventing burnout by giving you time to rest and recharge
- Reducing stress and anxiety so you can approach caregiving with renewed patience
- Improving your relationship with your loved one by reducing resentment and frustration
- Supporting your physical health by allowing time for exercise, medical appointments, and self-care
- Benefiting your care recipient through professional support and social engagement
At BrightStar Care of Howard County, our respite care services provide temporary relief while ensuring your loved one receives the same attentive, compassionate care they're accustomed to. Our RN-led team creates a smooth transition, maintaining routines and providing peace of mind.
Creating Joy Amid the Challenges
Even with all the pressures, the holidays can still be a source of joy for both you and your loved one. Here are some ways to create meaningful moments:
Focus on Connection Over Perfection
The best holiday memories aren't about elaborate decorations or gourmet meals—they're about time spent together. Sit with your loved one, hold their hand, and be present.
Adapt Traditions
If your loved one can no longer participate in traditions the way they once did, find new ways to include them. Drive around to see holiday lights together. Play their favorite carols. Watch a beloved holiday movie.
Embrace Simple Pleasures
A cup of hot cocoa, the scent of cinnamon, the sound of laughter—these small moments create lasting memories. Don't underestimate their power.
Take Photos
Capture the moments, even the imperfect ones. These memories will become treasures in the years to come.
You Don't Have to Do This Alone
At BrightStar Care of Howard County, we're here to support your family every step of the way.
Our services include:
- Companion care for meaningful connection and daily support
- Personal care assistance with bathing, dressing, and mobility
- Respite care to give family caregivers a well-deserved break
- Skilled nursing for complex medical needs, overseen by our Director of Nursing
- 24/7 availability for peace of mind whenever you need us
Our caregivers bring warmth, professionalism, and genuine compassion to every interaction. We understand that inviting someone into your home to care for your loved one requires trust—and we take that responsibility seriously.
Take the First Step Today
This holiday season, give yourself the gift of support. Contact BrightStar Care of Howard County at (410) 910-9425 to schedule your complimentary in-home assessment. Our care coordinators will listen to your needs, answer your questions, and help you create a care plan that works for your family.
Visit us online:
www.brightstarcare.com/locations/howard-county/
Our address:
060 Oakland Mills Rd, Suite P, Columbia, MD 21046
Remember: Taking care of yourself is not a luxury—it's a necessity. You deserve to experience the joy of this season, too.