Relief for Family Caregivers

Caring for an aging parent is a labor of love, but it is still hard work. The time and energy spent caring for an elderly parent may lead to reducing time for hobbies and vacation time. Increased stress with one’s spouse or children or friends can be common. Eventually, trying to manage caregiving with work, family and managing two households can increase your risk for depression or chronic illness and may lead to a decline in your general quality of life.

If you’re like many caregivers, you may cut back on sleep, eat more sporadically, eliminate regular exercise, continue even when you’re sick or put off your own medical appointments. You may be more likely to suffer from chronic conditions such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. An estimated 46 percent to 59 percent of caregivers suffer from clinical depression.

It’s time to consider: “How will I be helpful to the person I care for if I become ill?” As a caregiver, it is essential for you to take good care of yourself—even while taking care of your loved one.

You can take some much-needed time for yourself while arranging for the needs of your senior parent by relying on A Better Care Option’s respite care services.