Caregiver Stress

Almost half of all patients with dementia have Alzheimer’s disease. The usual onset of Alzheimer’s is after the age of 65, though it can appear earlier. Caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease (or any kind of dementia) can be stressful and sometimes frustrating for family members. As discussed in Chapter 15 it takes a heavy emotional, mental, and physical toll to take care of their parents as they deteriorate mentally and physically. Support systems are integral to the health of both the patient and the caregiver. It is important for not only caregivers themselves to recognize signs of caregiver burnout, but also for family and friends to be aware so caregivers can continue to maintain both physical, emotional, and mental health.

After reading “Caregiver Stress Burnout” and the American Psychological Association Monitor article “Caring for Caregivers”, consider the questions below. Then “submit” your response.

Question 1

What percentage of caregivers of patients with dementia are older than 55?

A.
B.
C.
D.

Question 2

The proportion of the U.S. population who are older than 65 will rise from ____to ____ percent in the next 20 years, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

A.
B.
C.
D.

Question 3

Which of the following is a symptom of caregiver stress?

A.
B.
C.
D.

Question 4

What were the findings from the 2003 meta-analysis reported in Psychological Bulletin?
Answers will vary. One possibility: The meta-analysis found that caring for a family member with dementia is chronically stressful and can have physical health consequences for the caregivers. Caregivers registered 23 percent higher levels of stress hormones than noncaregivers, as well as elevated blood pressure and glucose levels, which could lead to hypertension and diabetes, respectively.

Question 5

What are the benefits of caregiving?
Answers will vary. One possibility: The caregiver feels that he or she is making a significant contribution to the family, as well as fostering closeness and appreciation between the patient and caregiver, as well as other family members.

Note: Web links in this activity lead you to external sites. Some URLs change frequently and may appear as broken links. If you encounter a broken link, try searching for the article or organization in your Web browser or click here to see if a replacement link is provided. To report a broken link, contact technical support through the help option in LaunchPad.