Caregiving for the Elderly

Paper Summary:

A number of studies have been conducted over the past decade that provide insights into the type of emotional problems that can occur in the caregivers. There is also research that is done to determine the means by which the emotional turmoil can be reduced if not eliminated. This paper offers example of both types of studies. Although any type of illness can be used, a number of these articles use the emotional problems resulting from having a parent who is suffering from Alzheimer's disease. It explains that this illness can be very similar to dementia that often afflicts the elderly.

From the Paper:

"Increasing numbers of the babyboomer generation are having to take care of their aging parents in addition to other responsibilities, such as sending their children to college and working full time to pay for rising expenses. The degree of stress that occurs regardless when caring for someone who is ill, is aggravated because of emotions including guilt that one is not doing enough, fear that a loved one is suffering, sadness that a life is coming to an end and depression from frustration and exhaustion. Resources are another difficulty. In many cases, the older children do not even live in the same area as their aging parent and have to find services that are at a premium and vary considerably from one place to the next. Or, if living near one another, considerable time is required to run errands, go to and from the doctors, and respond to phone calls at all time day and night. It takes its emotional toll upon the strongest of individuals. Until recently, discussion of care giving focused on the recipients of care. However, increasingly specialists are addressing the needs of relatives and other informal caregivers."

More papers on Caregiving for the Elderly:

• Essay # 60073 : "Caregiving for the Elderly"
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• Research Paper # 68044 : "Educational Activities for the Elderly"

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