Caring for an Older Adult is a Stressful Task

Caregiver Links:

We offer help to all adults caring for an aging parent or loved one Eldercare & Caregiver Resource Center: Caregiver Information: Stress

Research indicates that caregivers are more likely to have stress-related physical problems than others in their age group. Be aware that chronic muscle tension, insomnia, indigestion, trembling, teeth grinding, jaw clenching, sweaty hands, changes in appetite, dizziness, stomachache, headache and back pain are signs of stress. These are warning signs of depression, exhaustion and other illnesses, and they won't go away by themselves.

By developing some coping strategies, you may be able to avoid reaching the point of exhaustion and burnout. Burnout has occurred if you become numb to your loved one's needs and feelings and you just don't care. Don't let it go that far; it may be difficult or impossible to recover.

Remember that even though you may feel like you are alone, you are not. There are a variety of resources that can assist you during this emotionally stressful time. With 18 to 25 million informal caregivers in the United States there is a growing supply of books, organizations, web pages, and support groups that offer information to help you with the tremendous task of providing care for a loved one.

Your Eldercare Specialist can assist you by:

Assessing your level of stress
Instructing you in stress management techniques
Providing information on caregiver support groups
in your area
Offering emotional support

Take our Caregiver Stress Quiz to gauge how you are holding up.

St. Andrew's Resources for Seniors: Eldercare & Caregiver Resource Center
6633 Delmar Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63130 Phone: 314-726-5766 Fax: 314-726-5719 Contact Us