Caring for the Caregiver

With the rising cost of health care many families are choosing to care for their aging loved ones themselves. Typically this responsibility falls on one person in the family. This responsibility can be even more challenging if your loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Caregiving can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be overwhelming and stressful. If you don’t take proper care of yourself, the physical and emotional strain can cause anxiety, depression or physical illness. Statistics show that caregivers are twice as likely to suffer from depression if they are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. It is important for a caregiver to take care of themselves. A caregiver is not able to care for a loved one if he or she does not stay in good health, mentally and physically.

If you are a caregiver you should be aware of the signs of stress or depression. The signs may include:

◦ Restlessness or irritability

◦ Feeling depressed or sad

◦ Feeling exhausted with no energy

◦ Not being able to sleep

◦ Having trouble getting out of bed in the morning

◦ Not feeling hungry

◦ Wanting to eat all of the time

◦ Not interested in spending time with friends

◦ Not interested in doing things that you like to do

◦ Feeling angry and resenting your loved one

◦ Feeling that your life has been stolen from you

If you think you are depressed or experiencing signs of caregiver stress, it is important that you see your healthcare provider as well as a mental health professional right away. Be sure to inform them that you are a care giver for a loved one and describe how you have been feeling.

One way to deal with the stress of being a care giver is to take time out for one self. Your local community center or senior center can be a great place to find programs specifically designed for helping care givers. One such program is being run by the Day Haven Adult Day Services Center on Jan. 21, 2012. This is a free program. Care for your loved one can also be provided for those who pre-register.

Event: “Day of Renewal for Caregivers”

Date: Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012

Time: 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: The Community Center of Jefferson’s Ferry Lifecare Retirement Community, South Setauket, NY

Cost: Free

Come de-stress and enjoy a day of refreshment and renewal. Activities may include: yoga, tai-chi, caregiving and stress management discussions, nutrition presentations, cooking demonstrations, massage, manicures, comedy and meditation.

Taking care of yourself mentally, physically, and spiritually is the best gift you can give your loved ones. RSVP to Julie at 631-585-2020, ext. 260. Free care provided for your loved one. Call for information.

This event is sponsored by Day Haven Adult Day Service Center, Jefferson’s Ferry Lifecare Retirement Community, Home Instead and Long Term Financial Partners.

A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.

-Jackie Robinson

Editor's Note: Anthony D`Amico is the owner of Always Best Care of Central Suffolk, a non-medical home care & assisted living placement agency.