A few weeks back, I came across a news headline revealing a startling new statistic about the numbers of individuals serving as caregivers in our nation. According to a new study from the Pew Research Center, 39 percent of individuals in the U.S. are now family caregivers, up from 30 percent in 2012. While this number seems large, it will only rise as our older adult population continues to grow.
Right now, it’s very possible that many of you are serving as caregivers yourselves. Yet, you may not even realize it. If you’re assisting an aging parent with household chores or finances, preparing their meals, or helping with more time-consuming tasks such as bathing and transportation, you are a family caregiver.
To you, this work comes naturally. Throughout your lifetime, your parents loved you unconditionally, nurtured you and cared for and provided for your every need. Because they were always there for you, you feel an obligation to be there for them and to provide them with the same care they once so freely provided you.
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In many cases, caring for those we love so dearly can be a joyful journey, but it can also be a stressful and challenging one. As more of us are thrust into the role of “caregiver,” we are taking on these responsibilities, while also working full or part-time, caring for our own children and families and juggling the events of our daily lives. With all that family caregivers have on their plates, it’s no wonder they often feel stressed and overwhelmed, and see declines in their own health and well-being.
If you’re a caregiver, always remember that you’re not alone. Be open to asking others for assistance. You may be pleasantly surprised at how willing others are to lend a hand. From other family members and friends to neighbors and members of your faith community, a wealth of support is out there. Organizations like Senior Solutions can also direct you to numerous community resources designed to help enhance the lives of you and the loved one you’re caring for. The better you care for yourself, the better caregiver you’ll be and the more fulfilling your caregiving experience will be.
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Ann Bannes is Vice President of Senior Solutions, a service of St. Andrew’s and St. Luke’s Hospital. Senior Solutions offers a wealth of services designed to help caregivers cope with the challenges of caring for an aging family member, friend or loved one. To learn more, visit www.seniorsolutions-stl.com or call 314-726-5766.