Caregivers and credentials
Caregiver stress
Caregiver stress is the physical and emotional strain that comes from caring for another person over time. It can cause exhaustion, anxiety, poor sleep, and health problems. It often builds slowly. Family caregivers feel it most, and it can lower the quality of care they are able to give.
Why it matters for your family
Many family caregivers wait too long to ask for help. The National Institute on Aging lists warning signs such as feeling worn out or overwhelmed, trouble sleeping, getting angry easily, and losing interest in things you enjoy. A common mistake is to see these signs as a personal failing. They are common and they are a signal to change the plan. A family can share tasks, join a support group, or set up respite so the main caregiver can rest. A trained caregiver for a few hours each week can also give real relief. Talk with a doctor if the stress does not ease.
Source: nia.nih.gov
Read more: Caregiver Burnout - Recognizing and Coping with Signs of Caregiver Stress
Related terms
- Caregiver burnoutCaregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that can come from long-term caregiving stress.
- Family caregiverA family caregiver is a relative, partner, friend, or neighbor who gives unpaid help to someone with an illness, disability, or age-related needs.
- Respite careRespite care is short-term care that gives a family caregiver a break.
- Area Agency on Aging (AAA)An Area Agency on Aging is a public or private nonprofit agency that a state designates to meet the needs of older adults in a local area.
- Adult day careAdult day care is a community program that gives adults supervised daytime care outside the home.
