Feeling Overwhelmed? How Caregivers Can Set Boundaries and Protect Their Well-Being

Being a caregiver is challenging enough without feeling like you’re being taken advantage of. One story recently shared with us highlights an all-too-common frustration: getting stuck doing tasks that weren’t part of the job description.

A caregiver shared that she cares for a quadriplegic client and often ends up doing the laundry, dishes, and household chores for the client’s wife, who seems to expect a full-service maid in addition to caregiving. Despite these frustrations, this caregiver loves her job but reached a breaking point when she realized she was being taken advantage of.

It’s a story many caregivers can relate to. You’re there to provide care, yet somehow you end up folding laundry, cleaning up after others, and doing things that go way beyond your job description. So, what can you do when you find yourself in a situation like this?

1. Establish Clear Boundaries Early

It’s crucial to clearly define your role from the start. If your job is to care for a specific individual, focus on that and be firm about what you’re not responsible for. This isn’t about being difficult or unwilling to help—it’s about maintaining a professional boundary that ensures your role doesn’t expand into something unmanageable.

2. Communicate Respectfully

When you notice that you’re being asked to do things outside of your responsibilities, don’t be afraid to speak up. Approach the conversation calmly and respectfully. You might say something like, “I’m happy to help with [client’s name], but I’m unable to take on additional household chores.” Set expectations while showing empathy for the family’s needs.

3. Know When to Push Back

If the situation persists despite your efforts, it’s okay to push back a little harder. As the caregiver shared, you’re not there to be a maid, and it’s okay to assert yourself when needed. Stick to your agreed-upon duties and don’t allow others to take advantage of your kindness.

4. Find Your Support System

You’re not alone in feeling frustrated. Talk to other caregivers, seek advice from your agency (if applicable), or join a caregiver support group. Whether online or in person, having a community where you can vent, share tips, and find solidarity can make a huge difference in handling tough situations.

5. Take Care of Yourself

Caregiving can be physically and emotionally draining. Be sure to make time for yourself. Burnout happens when you take on too much and forget to care for your own needs. Set those boundaries not just for your work life, but for your well-being, too.

Take Charge of Your Caregiving Journey

No caregiver should feel like they’re being walked all over. Whether you’re dealing with a family member who isn’t pulling their weight or a client who crosses boundaries, it’s important to stand up for yourself. You deserve to be treated with respect and dignity—and the same goes for every caregiver out there.

If you’ve been in a similar situation or have tips for setting boundaries, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Sharing our experiences helps us all become stronger caregivers.