Alzheimer's Disease: The Effects Of Caregiver Stress

Effects of Caregiver Stress
Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. People that develop this disease often have to be taken care of by a care giver. The emotional stress will manifest physically in the caregiver. As the disease progresses, it becomes apparent that the best care possible can no longer be given safely in the home. The decision to place a loved one in a facility brings about feelings of guilt along with financial difficulties. Fortunately, organizations such as The Alzheimer’s Association and Senior Helpers recognize caregiver stress and offer many resources to assist in better care of those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and those giving care. Alzheimer’s disease can negatively
Stress can affect relationships with others, attitudes toward life, and can even negatively affect one's health. Caregiver stress is due to the emotional and physical strain of caregiving. “Many caregivers are providing help or are “on call” almost all day. Sometimes, this means there is little time for work or other family members and friends” (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2015). Caregivers of those who suffer from Alzheimer's disease are also suffering- from emotional stress because slowly, but surely, they are watching as their loved one's mental and physical capabilities inevitably drift away. Sometimes the caregiver's stress can be portrayed as irritability, hostility, depression, anxiety, feelings of helplessness; they have an inability to appreciate or enjoy life, along with many other signs. A caregiver can also show physical signs of stress which include fatigue, tension headaches, back aches, high blood pressure, changes in appetite, nervousness including sweaty palms. The stress that is upon a caregiver can also cause a higher risk for chronic diseases. “High levels of stress, especially combined with depression, can raise the risk for health problems, such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis” (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2015).In short, stress plays a major role in a caregiver's life, and the caregiver should also take care of oneself
After they are first diagnosed, it is critical to have all of the legal documents in order for future financial and healthcare decisions. For example, a power of attorney over finances and healthcare is important to assure that the patient’s wishes are carried out (30). Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, and having all of their documents in place helps relieve stress on the caregiver. Alzheimer’s not only affects the finances of the patient, but the caregivers as well. In 2016, the average cost of treatment for Alzheimer’s was $236 billion dollars (Alzheimers and Dementia, 2016). Forty- one percent of caregivers make a total household income of $50,000 or less (Alzheimers and Dementia, 2016). Many family members and other caregivers had to curb basic necessities. For example, food and healthcare for themselves. Most caregivers are concerned about their healthcare because they cannot afford it. Twenty- eight percent of family and caregivers eat less or go hungry (Alzheimers and Dementia, 2016). Caregivers go through many hardships emotionally, financially, and physically while caring for their