Care giving can be distressing, says study
Posted August 26, 2010 6:50 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Many people caring for sick or elderly family members are ‘in distress,’ according to two new studies released today by the Canadian Institute for Health Information.
A new report on home care shows that many family members who are giving ‘extra’ help are overwhelmed, and one in six family members assisting with home care is feeling burnout.
Nancy White is with the Canadian Institute for Health Information which released the study says those overwhelmed family members need support themselves. “It’s important to rally support around that caregiver and the patient, and provide an opportunity for the caregiver to get a break.”
She says if the senior receiving home care suffers from dementia, their loved ones who are helping with those extra things like shopping and emotional support are far more likely to report feelings of anger or depression.
