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Caregivers Neglect Top Resource: Themselves

News Caregivers Neglect Top Resource: Themselves HealthNewsDigest.com - March 12, 2004 HealthNewsDigest.com - If you are among the individuals in an estimated 22.4 million households providing care to a frail elderly person, there’s an important consideration you may have overlooked. Your own health. According to recent studies, caregiving can increase your risk of disease and even untimely death. Some 25 percent of female caregivers have health problems that result from their caregiving activities and caregivers are more likely to suffer depression or anxiety than those with no caregiving responsibility. Caregivers also tend to make less money and lose the time they need to advance their careers. This is not only bad for you and the rest of your family, it’s bad for the person you’re trying to take care of. Caregivers, one doctor has explained, "don’t think of themselves as a resource that needs to be protected. Here they are protecting the finances, health and everything else for their loved one, but they are woefully neglecting the one resource that makes it all possible." Fortunately, help is available. Caregiver support services include information, assistance, counseling, support groups, respite, home modification and assistive devices. These services are available through government agencies, service organizations, faith-based organizations and sometimes even the work place. One of the best resources for finding support and assistance is the Eldercare Locator, a service of the U.S. Administration on Aging. No matter where in the country you or your loved one lives, the Eldercare Locator can provide the information you need. The Administration on Aging also suggests ways that caregivers can help themselves: 1. Plan ahead 2. Learn about available resources 3. Take one day at a time 4. Develop contingency plans 5. Accept help 6. Make your health a priority 7. Get enough rest and eat properly 8. Make time for leisure 9. Be good to yourself 10. Share your feelings with others. You can learn more abut caregiver services by calling the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or visiting online at www.eldercare.gov. www.HealthNewsDigest.com

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