Caregiving is a meaningful part of life for many in Singapore — whether it’s for an elderly parent, a child with special needs, or a loved one with a health condition. But even with love and dedication, the role can become overwhelming. When the demands begin to quietly build and there’s little space left to rest or recover, caregivers may find themselves emotionally and physically depleted — a state known as caregiver burnout.
By 2030, one in four Singaporeans will be aged 65 and above, placing more families in caregiving roles. Today, about one in six residents is already caring for a loved one — most between the ages of 40 and 59 — and nearly 70% report experiencing moderate to high stress. Studies by the National Council of Social Service (2021) and Singapore Management University (2020) further reveal that over a third of caregivers show signs of depression or anxiety, with 75% of dementia caregivers expressing a strong need for time apart due to exhaustion.
What is Caregiver Burnout?
Caregiver burnout is a form of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that can develop when you’ve been caring for someone over a prolonged period, often without enough rest or support. It’s more than just feeling tired — it’s the gradual loss of energy, motivation, or joy, even in moments that once felt meaningful.
Burnout doesn’t mean you’re weak or unloving — it means you’ve been giving so much for so long, without pausing to care for yourself. Recognising this is not a failure. It’s the first and most important step toward healing.
Common Causes of Caregiver Burnout.
Time and Energy Drain
Having little to no time or energy for rest, sleep, exercise, hobbies, or health check-ups due to caregiving demands.
Limited Support or Awareness of Resources
Feeling isolated in your caregiving role because of limited emotional or practical support, or not knowing about available help and resources.
Social Isolation
Losing contact with friends, family, or activities that once brought joy and connection.
Emotional Strain and Pressure
Carrying heavy feelings like fear, guilt, and frustration, while facing high personal expectations or uncertainty about progress, which can lead to self-blame and burnout.
How Burnout May Show Up in Your Life.
Persistent Fatigue and Sleep Issues
Constant exhaustion, trouble falling asleep, or feeling rested.
Emotional Distress
Feelings of emotional numbness, frequent irritability, frustration, guilt, or a sense of inadequacy.
Physical Health Decline
Frequent illness, changes in appetite, or other stress-related body symptoms.
Social Withdrawal
Pulling away from friends, family, or activities you once enjoyed.
Loss of Joy and Motivation
A sense of being overwhelmed, unable to find satisfaction in caregiving or daily life.
Coping with Caregiver Burnout.
Make Time for Yourself
Prioritise simple acts of self-care, such as taking short breaks, getting fresh air, or practising stress relief techniques like deep breathing or journaling. Even a few moments to pause can help restore your energy.
Learn and Connect
The more you understand your loved one’s condition, the more confident and less alone you’ll feel. Joining talks or hearing from others in similar roles can help you gain practical knowledge and emotional reassurance. At CaringWheels, our expert-led sessions and peer conversations offer guidance not just on care techniques, but also on how to support your own well-being.
Set Realistic Expectations and Manage Time
Accept that you can’t do everything — and that’s okay. Set boundaries, break tasks into manageable steps, and allow flexibility in your daily routine. Caring for someone takes time, and so does caring for yourself.
Seek Support from Professionals
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, speaking to a professional can help. At CaringWheels, our Care Aides and Medical Chaperones are here to support you — so you don’t have to do everything alone.
Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish — it’s essential.
You can’t pour from an empty cup. When you’re supported, you’re better able to care for those who need you most.
Let CaringWheels walk this journey with you. 💛