Caregiver Stress

More than 80 percent of  caregivers report frequent experiences with high levels of stress and nearly 50 percent report suffering from depression.
Many caregivers do not recognize their own needs (or that they might have them!), fail to do anything about them or simply don’t know where to turn for help.
Too much stress can be damaging to both to the caregivers and the person being cared for.

Recognizing the signs and learning how to reduce stress can help. Many of the signs and symptoms are those similar to depression.

Warning signs of caregiver stress

• Denial
• Anger
• Social withdrawal
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Exhaustion
• Sleeplessness
• Irritability
• Lack of concentration
• Health problems

Caregivers who are experiencing several of these stress symptoms on a regular basis should consult with their physician. There may be respite, daycare, or home health options that have yet to be explored.

The following steps may help to manage the caregiver stress:

Ways to reduce caregiver stress

• Know the resources are available in your community.
• Become educated on Alzheimer’s disease and care giving techniques.
• Get involved with your local Alzheimer's Association.
• Get help from family, friends and community resources.
• Take care of yourself! Watch your diet, exercise and get plenty of rest.
• Manage your level of stress by consulting a physician and using relaxation techniques.
• Accept changes as they occur.
• Do legal and financial planning early in the disease process.
• Be realistic about what you can do.
• Give yourself credit, not guilt, if you lose patience or can’t do everything on your own.