The varying health costs of caring

Submitted by tonyplant on December 15, 2005 - 17:54.

A study suggests that the type of assistance that Carers provide is linked to the amount of stress that they experience. Interestingly, the authors report that Carers who are coping with matters such as financial management or medication scheduling on behalf of others report more stress than those who are meeting physical needs.

To watch someone, particularly a parent, lose cognitive abilities so that they cannot do the 'thinking' tasks that they used to, is very hard on the caregiver emotionally—and often is actually more stressful than assisting with the more physically demanding tasks such as bathing or cleaning.

Unsurprisingly, many Caregivers feel increased sadness, irritability, fatigue and guilt. Feelings that are typically regarded as features of chronic unhappiness and precursors of chronic depression. The authors surveyed Caregivers and asked what they thought would help them. Carers stressed the need for practical, real-world assistance that would help them to manage their situation. The least favoured options were psychological counselling, group therapy and support groups.

Hmm-from my family experience, it can depend on the support group. I know that the Alzheimer’s Society runs an excellent network of Carers' groups that can be a one-stop shop for advice on local resources, how to apply for Carers’ Allowance and how to navigate someone through the health care system. My local branch offers a drop-in service on several days a week where Carers and the Care-Recipients can go and meet others, laugh and share stories. Similarly, my local Stroke Association offers a variety of services and different flavours of support.

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