Caring for the Caregiver

Are you providing care for a family member or do you work with someone who does? If your answer is yes, you are not alone. Currently there are more than 22 million family caregivers in the U.S., and that number is expected to reach 39 million by 2007.

The term family caregiver refers to unpaid individuals such as family members, friends and neighbors who provide care for someone. These individuals can be primary or secondary caregivers, full or part time, and can live with the person being cared for or live separately.

Caregiver Statistics

• Approximately 73 percent of home care services are provided by family caregivers.
• The average caregiver is a 46-year-old woman who is married and employed outside the home.
• More than 60 percent of caregivers work full- or part-time.
• More than 20 percent of caregivers take care of someone with mental confusion, dementia, Alzheimer's disease or forgetfulness.
• Caregivers dedicate an average of 18 hours per week to provide care for an older person.
• 20 percent of those caring for family or friends aged 50 and older spend over 40 hours per week providing care, with some providing constant care.
• About half of primary caregivers provide care with no outside assistance whatsoever.
• Only 10-20 percent of family caregivers use formal services through public or private agencies.

Although caring for a loved one can be a rewarding experience, the responsibilities of a caregiver can become overwhelming and stressful. You may be too busy in your daily routine or are too caught up doing for others that you ignore the signs of stress. Some caregivers don't pay attention to these signs until an emotional crisis or breakdown occurs. But by recognizing these signs early, you can make changes that will help alleviate your stress and help you to stay physically and emotionally healthy.

Caregivers need breaks. Juggling a job, family and social obligations on their own can be tough. Add to that caregiving responsibilities, and that juggling act becomes even more difficult. There are several things you can do to help avoid or alleviate caregiver stress. A few of the things that you can do include:

• Develop a support system of family, friends or outside sources.
• Talk with your family on a regular basis about how they can share some of the responsibilities, such as cleaning the house, grocery shopping, preparing meals or running errands.
• Get help from community organizations such as respite care services or faith-based organizations. Respite services may be offered through local hospitals, long-terms care facilities or assisted living facilities.
• Talk about your feelings with a professional, such as a healthcare provider, psychologist or clergy.

In January 2004, the American Red Cross released a new Family Caregiving Program. This new program offers you a helping hand by providing a variety of information-packed sessions covering topics that can help you provide the care that your loved one may need, including subjects such as home safety, healthy eating and bathing, as well as legal and financial issues. There's even a session that helps you take care of yourself. For more information, please contact your local American Red Cross chapter.