Caring for a loved one at the end of life is one of the most meaningful acts of love a person can give. But it can also be one of the hardest. Many caregivers find themselves balancing work, family and daily responsibilities while also trying to manage complex medical needs at home. Over time, this can take a toll physically, emotionally and spiritually. This feeling has a name: caregiver burnout.
Understanding Caregiver Burnout
Caregiver burnout doesn’t happen all at once. It often builds gradually. It can look like exhaustion that doesn’t go away with sleep, constant worry, irritability or feeling like you have nothing left to give. You may even start to feel guilty for feeling this way, which only adds to the weight you carry.
The truth is no one can do this alone. And you don’t have to. Scripture reminds us that we are not meant to carry our burdens by ourselves.
How Hospice Helps
Hospice care is not just about the patient; it’s about the whole family. At Wellspring, our hospice team includes a physician, nurses, social workers, chaplains, bereavement coordinator, aides and trained volunteers who walk alongside families through one of life’s hardest seasons.
Hospice can ease the caregiver’s burden by:
- Providing 24/7 access to medical support
- Managing medications, equipment and supplies so you don’t have to—even being delivered to your doorstep
- Offering emotional and spiritual care for the whole family, affirming God’s presence in times of struggle
- Giving caregivers much-needed rest through respite care
Hospice support means you don’t have to choose between caring for your loved one and caring for yourself. Both matter.
You’re Still the Caregiver
Accepting help doesn’t mean stepping away from your role. Hospice care allows you to focus more on being present with time and energy to share moments of connection, conversation and love—while Wellspring takes on the practical care.
Your role as a caregiver doesn’t end with hospice support. It simply shifts, giving you space to be a spouse, a son or daughter, a grandchild, a niece or nephew, or a friend or neighbor again. It’s a chance to step back into those God-given roles while trusting that your loved one is surrounded with compassionate care.
When You’re Ready, We’re Here
If you find yourself overwhelmed, worn out or simply needing support, hospice can make a difference for both you and your loved one. At Wellspring, we see this work as a sacred calling—to walk alongside you with compassion, dignity and faith.
Call today: 989.652.4663
Visit us: wellspringlutheran.com
Email: hospiceinfo@wellspringlutheran.com
You don’t have to carry this alone. As Jesus reminds us, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
We’re here to help.
Photo © KatarzynaBialasiewicz/iStock
Craig Britton - October 21, 2025
Many thanks to you all. As a former hospice chaplain I simply give an “amen” to all you have shared. I would simply add that choosing hospice is conceding defeat. I encourage families to invite hospice care in at the earliest possible juncture BECAUSE there are so many benefits to be had. Sadly, many families never experience them because that admittedly difficult decision is delayed unnecessarily. Thank you again and God continue to bless your marvelous work.
Nancy K. - October 21, 2025
I was the sole caregiver for my mom for 15 years, until the end of her life earlier this year. She chose hospice care a year before she died, and it was the best decision for her. Knowing that she no longer had to worry about being rushed to the hospital by ambulance, enduring treatment that wasn’t really giving long term help, and that she could stay HOME, all gave her better quality of life, and it brought her deep and inner peace. Hospice is not just for those facing imminent death. For those who are caregivers, it is a tremendous support for the emotional, physical and mental strain, feelings you may not even realize are there until after your loved one is gone.