Last verified: October 2026
What are the signs of caregiver burnout?
Exhaustion that sleep does not fix, missed medical appointments of your own, irritability with the person you care for, and feeling there is no way out are the common signs; they are a reason to get help, not a personal failure.
Burnout often peaks when nights become disrupted.
What respite is available in Pima County?
Pima Council on Aging arranges respite with PCOA or partner agencies for eligible unpaid caregivers, including caregivers of anyone 60 or older and of people with dementia at any age; call (520) 790-7262.
Adult day and respite options →
Can adult day health care help?
Yes. A licensed adult day program covers supervision, activities, meals and personal care for part of the day, at an Arizona median of about $95 a day in CareScout's 2025 survey.
Regular weekday attendance gives many caregivers enough time to work or rest.
When is it time to consider a move?
Consider a move when the caregiver's own health is declining, when nights are unsafe, or when respite and day programs are no longer enough; a short trial stay in assisted living can make the decision clearer.
In-home care vs. assisted living →
Where can caregivers find support groups and training?
PCOA runs caregiver support groups, caregiver training and one-on-one caregiver consultations, and Dementia Capable Southern Arizona hosts Memory Cafés for people with dementia and their caregivers.
Start with PCOA's resource line, (520) 790-7262.
How do you talk with siblings about sharing care?
Hold one meeting with a written list of tasks, hours and costs, ask each sibling what they can take on, and agree how decisions will be made; siblings far away can often take money, paperwork or phone calls.
A neutral third party, such as a PCOA options counselor, can help when the conversation keeps stalling.
What legal documents should be in place before burnout forces a decision?
A durable financial power of attorney, a health care power of attorney and an up-to-date will or trust should be in place while the parent can still sign them, because a move or an ALTCS application will require someone with authority.
PCOA's legal assistance program and end-of-life planning resources are a starting point. Keep copies where siblings can find them.
Caregiver relief options
| Gives | Does not give | |
|---|---|---|
| Respite | hours or days off | permanent help |
| Adult day | weekday supervision | night coverage |
| A move | 24-hour staff | a free solution |
