Burnout

"Burnout describes the isolation, disassociation and fatigue that caregivers experience when caring for their elder loved ones -- on top of managing the stresses of everyday life.  43% of dementia caregivers report physical stress, and 61% report emotional stress."  Alzheimer's Association

The concern for burnout is very much a reality for those of us who are caregiving.  So, how does one avoid it?  The answer is probably different for each of us, but some suggestions are: 
-Know your options -- there is adult day care where one can take someone with dementia, private and agency services within the home, and assisted living and nursing homes. 
-Plan ahead -- that may be too late for those of already in the caregiving role, but it is important to have Living Wills and Durable Powers of Attorney created while the person has the cognitive ability to make decisions.
-Seek support:  there are support groups for both dementia and Parkinson's.  I have not found them to be personally supportive, but many people do.  In any case, have some close, trusted friends to support you.
-Look out for your own needs:  Know your limits and honor them.  It does no one any good to allow these diseases to take the caregiver, as well as the care receiver.