Piedmont HealthCare honors those who care for those who care for others. National Family Caregivers Month is celebrated each November and provides the opportunity to raise awareness for those across the country who are caring for a chronically ill, disabled or aged friend or family member. This care includes helping with daily eating and hygiene habits, cooking and cleaning, paying bills, scheduling and attending doctors’ appointments and tending to legal matters. The list of responsibilities is extensive.
Statistics demonstrate how much caregiving has become a part of many families’ daily lives.
- More than 65 million people nationwide are caregivers.
- Approximately 66% of family caregivers are women.
- Over one million children ages 8-18 assist an adult with providing care to a family member.
- 78% of adults who need long-term care depend on family and friends as their sole source of assistance.
The theme for this year’s National Caregivers Month is “Take Care to Give Care.” While caregiving can be a rewarding experience it is also physically and emotionally demanding.
- The stress associated with the caregiver role leads to higher risks of health issues including depression.
- 72% of caregivers say they don’t go to their own doctor appointments and 63% report poor eating habits.
- 23% of family caregivers tending to a loved one for five years or more state their own health as being fair or poor.
It’s important that caregivers tend to themselves which will in turn help them better care for their loved one.
- Take breaks. Meet a friend for lunch, see a movie or go for a walk. Do something you enjoy that is not related to caregiving.
- Ask for help. Accept help when it’s offered. Caregiving cannot be done alone.
- Relax. Take deep breaths, meditate or read a book. Find an activity that helps you relax.
- Take care of your health. Maintain a healthy diet and good sleeping habits, get exercise and attend regular doctor appointments.
- Laugh. Find opportunities to laugh and smile.
- Get support. Whether it’s through counseling, a friend, your doctor or a caregivers support group.
- Forgive yourself. It is impossible to be a perfect caregiver all day, each day.
For more helpful information and resources visit the following websites:
