Since the publicity has been enormous, anyone interested in caregiving would have a hard time not hearing about the ABC TV series on caregiving hosted by Maria Shriver. However, I do want to urge you to watch this important report by going to the ABC News site. You can type in “Shriver Report” and find the links.
Shriver has put her considerable clout behind Alzheimer’s awareness and research, as well as caregiver support. While the whole Shriver Report 2010 is worthy of our attention, I’d suggest that readers of Eldercarelink.com articles pay particular attention to the one titled Living with Alzheimer’s: Role of Caregiver.
The professionals on this segment say that 40 to 50 percent of the caregivers report the highest level of stress that often leads to depression. They suggest caregivers take control of what they can control (since they can’t control the disease), make healthy lifestyle choices such as diet, sleep and exercise, and make it a point not to isolate.
Isolation is a serious issue for caregivers. I’ve addressed isolation and other caregiver health risks in the Eldercarelink.com articles, Respite Care Key to Many Caregiver’s Mental Health, Caregivers Should Ward Off Burnout and Depression with Meaningful Time Off, and Depression, Suicidal Thoughts Affect Some Caregivers, plus many other articles. Our full range of Eldercarelink.com writers have lent their own unique voices to their articles on caregiver stress and caregiver health. Click on our contributors list to see their professional and personal biographies.
One step you can take is to go your state Web site and type “aging” in the search box. There, you will find your state’s version of the National Family Caregiver Support Program. You should get guidance and resources from this source. Many states also are on a program that allows you to dial 2-1-1 for resources. Take advantage of this support – for your own sake and your loved ones.
Take a moment to explore the full Eldercarelink.com site. You’ll find incredible support in these articles. Every writer is or has been a hands-on caregiver. This shows in the writing. You are not alone.
And don’t forget to watch the Shriver Report. There’s progress being made, but we have a long way to go. We need to stay informed.
For more information on the Shriver Report 2010, read Protecting Caregiver Health: When the Caregiver’s Health Fails the Care System Can Collapse.
Tags: ABC Alzheimer's series, Caregiving, depression
It’s sad to know that Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in the country. I totally agree that we need to stay informed about this serious disease. As part of our effort to help spread awareness and prevention about Alzheimer’s Disease. Thank you. Look forward to an Alzheimer’s-free world.