Caregiving Facts

• There are between 18-25 million family caregivers in the United States

• Family caregivers provide 2/3 of all home care services in the country

• Six in 10 caregivers report working while caregiving (61 percent) and the majority have experienced at least one work-related impact (61 percent)

• 65% of caregivers don’t get any help from family or friends

• 70% of caregivers say that frustration is their most frequently felt emotion

• Virtually ½ of all family caregivers say that they have suffered from prolonged depression

• The economic effects of family caregiving can result in financial strain with substantial financial consequences.

• Caregivers rate the change in family dynamics as the most difficult aspect of family caregiving

• Stress caused by issues related to caregiving is a major factor in verbal and physical abuse

• Caregivers are so overwhelmed by their responsibilities it can be difficult to find resources, even ones that are easily accessible

• Caregiving issues can lead to conflict in families

(Statistics from AARP & NAC study 2020)
 

Surprises for the Caregivers

• People are often not prepared physically, mentally or emotionally to meet the needs of their aging loved ones

• Physical needs • Emotional needs • Psycho-social needs • Mental health issues

• Special Needs of the Sandwich Generation • Caught between two very different generations • Pulled from both sides • Not enough inter-generational resources

Realistic Expectations what can we do to help??

• Make Self-Care a PRIORITY

• Ask for help. There are family and friends just waiting to be asked.

• Work with Geriatric Care professionals who can help you tap into local resource and utilize your current support network. It's worth the investment.

• Learn how to set boundaries with those around you.