HealthWatch: November 2004

National Family Caregivers Month

HealthWatch from ideastream recognizes National Family Caregivers Month. Both women and men face the challenges of caregiving and need support. Men make up 44% of the caregiving population. A caregiver’s mental and physical health is essential in providing care for a loved one. Stress is one factor that can significantly affect your overall well-being. Stress management through identifying the signs of stress and implementing coping skills can be very helpful. Signs of stress can be denial, anger, social withdraw, anxiety, depression, exhaustion, sleepiness, irritability, and inability to focus. Some coping tips include eating properly, exercising, and becoming involved in a community project.

Sources: Family Caregiver Alliance, National Center for Caregiving and National Family Caregivers Association

Information and Resources:

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