Health Risks of Being a Family Caregiver
Studies have found that 17.7 million individuals in the United States are family caregivers of a relative age 65 or older. These family caregivers, while valiant in intention, are under risk of many negative health effects. More than half of family caregivers are employed, which means the added stress of balancing a day job with caring for the elder relative. The predicament of family caregivers in America is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed.
Some risks for family caregivers include:
- Emotional distress, anxiety, or depression
- Financial stress
- Poor physical health
- Elevated levels of stress hormones
Other limitations that family caregivers face include:
- A physical environment that is not conducive to quality care
- Lack of choice in the matter of taking on the care-giving role
- Lack of social support
These risks and limitations are all side effects of being a family caregiver in your own home. Despite the obvious impact of being a caregiver, families and individuals still oftentimes choose to keep their elderly relatives at home rather than moving them into a senior living home. Fortunately many senior care homes are family-oriented and are decorated, run, and operated to make sure each occupant feels at home.
Tysons Woods Assisted Living in Vienna, VA is the perfect place to send an elderly relative who is in their 80’s or 90’s and still wants a small, homey environment. Contact us today for any questions regarding what kind of care is the best for your elderly relative, or for more information about Tysons Woods!
