HealthWatch: November 2005

National Family Caregivers Month

An estimated 22 million Americans care for an elderly parent, relative or friend. In Ohio, there are about 1.2 million caregivers who collectively work over a billion hours tending to the needs of their sick and elderly loved ones. To put that number in perspective, it would cost families over ten billion dollars to pay for those services. To top it off, most caregivers also have full or part-time jobs.

Between working and caregiving, it is no surprise that many people tend to neglect their own health. Depression, high blood pressure, stress and anxiety are common among caregivers. In addition, many caregivers do not seek help, often unaware of available support services and resources.

Given the pressures on caregivers, it is little wonder they do not always care for themselves. However, research has shown that care recipients also benefit when the caregiver is in good health.

Sources: Family Caregiver Alliance, Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging, Balancing Work and Caregiving and National Family Caregivers Association
Information and Resources:

Local

For a detailed list of local resources and downloadable resource guide, click here.

NetWellness, Community Health Information, Aging
Ohio Department of Aging
The Ohio State University, Human Development & Family Science Extension, Aging in Ohio
Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging, Balancing Work and Caregiving

National

Administration on Aging
AARP, Caregiving
Alzheimer’s Association, Caregiving Tips
Alzheimer’s Association, Coping Tips for Caregivers
Alzheimer’s Association, Family & Friends
And Thou Shalt Honor
Family Caregiving 101
Family Caregiver Alliance, National Center for Caregiving
National Alliance for Caregiving
National Family Caregivers Association
Share your caregiving story
Taking Care of YOU: Self-Care for Family Caregivers
WebMDHealth, 10 Strategies for Long-Distance Caregiving