When chronic disease strikes, everyone in the immediate family suffers right along with the patient. And the effects of that illness go well beyond the family. Friends and co-workers are included as well.
As our population ages, chronic illness is becoming more prevalent. American baby boomers will rapidly add significantly to those who are afflicted with such conditions.
Many with a chronic illness require assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing and meal preparation. And the caregiver providing that assistance can easily develop his or her own brand of physical and emotional stresses. Symptoms experienced by a caregiver may include anger, depression, irritability and an overall feeling of uneasiness with life itself.
Certainly the degree of stress on the caregiver can be a direct result of the patient's prognosis and the specific effect of the illness on the patient's daily life. That impact can affect the caregiver's ability to work, or even relationships with co-workers and supervisors on the job. The patient's ability to manage medications or even the symptoms that accompany the illness can also affect the caregiver's stress level.
Caregivers usually experience additional demands on their time, which can have their own ripple effect. Family roles and responsibilities can get shifted when an adult child takes on the role of a parent to his own mother or father. And the caregiver needs to maintain an independent life, personally and vocationally.
Quite a juggling act.
Caregiver support could include children assuming additional responsibilities around the house. Or perhaps friends can provide some respite care so the caregiver can take some time off.
A caregiver can do a number of things to reduce his own stress level.
Schedule specific times for breaks. This may include regular days off from normal duties; maybe make time for shopping with friends or taking in a movie. Above all, the caregiver must take care of himself, including nutritious meals and sufficient sleep.
Everyone, including caregivers, has limits, physically, emotionally and psychologically. Perhaps, try to seek out a local support group just for caregivers. And know when to ask for help. It will ease any feelings of isolation and frustration.
Chronic illness begins with the patient, but it can take on a life of its own in those acting as caregivers, as well as family and friends.
Contact Allan Appel c/o Scripps Treasure Coast Newspapers, 1939 S. Federal Highway, P.O. Box 9009, Stuart, FL 34994, or e-mail him at aappel223@yahoo.com.
