While many assume the natural progression of aging will include providing care to a loved one, it can be an overwhelming development in the life of those caregivers. Here are some points to consider, courtesy of the CDC 2015-16 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Data.
Caregiving is widespread: 1 in 5 adults are caregivers, and 1 in 6 non-caregivers expect to take on that role in the next 2 years.
Caregiving is lengthy: 50% provide care for at least 2 years.
Caregiving is intense: 30% provide care for at least 20 hours a week.
While caregiving can be a solution for some families, it can also be a thankless role with a large negative impact on the caregiver across many facets of their life.
Physical Duress: Caregiving can be a largely physical role especially for those with higher assistance needs like bathing and transferring. Many caregivers don’t have any formal caregiving training, so over time, they end up hurting themselves making the repeated movements that they weren’t trained to do. Self-care among caregivers tends to wane as they focus their attention on others rather than themselves.
Emotional Duress: When a relative takes on the role of caregiver, the relationship invariably shifts. Many caregivers report a lack of boundaries between their role as caregiver and that of spouse or child. This can be very challenging, resulting in depression and emotional stress.
Social Impacts: Caregivers may find themselves struggling to find a break in their role, as few have a backup plan in place. Many will not ask for additional help, so as not to add burden on others’ shoulders. The focus on caregiving often comes at a sacrifice of other commitments like family, friends and work.
Many caregivers are initially reluctant to reach out for help, either through a sense of duty or by setting unrealistic expectations for themselves. Many senior living communities offer a solution through a short-term respite stay, which can go a long way in alleviating some of the stress involved in caregiving. This way, the senior gets the appropriate care in a social setting among their peers, so they can be as active and engaged as they’d like. While the senior is getting respite care, the caregiver gets a break and opportunity for self-care and revitalization, which is so critical. So it’s a win for all involved.
A respite stay can vary in length, but typically lasts 30–60 days. Apartments come fully furnished and pricing includes all care, meals, laundry and activities. Family and friends can still visit, and the senior can come and go as they please. The family can have peace of mind that their relative is getting all the care they need.