Caring for a Parent with Alzheimer's Analytical Essay by Nicky

An examination of the psychological stress of caring for a parent with Alzheimer's disease.
# 150020 | 2,338 words | 4 sources | MLA | 2012 | US
Published on Jan 19, 2012 in Sociology (Social Work) , Medical and Health (General) , Psychology (General)


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Description:

The paper discusses how children can show signs of extreme denial, anger and depression while caring for a parent with Alzheimer's disease. The paper addresses these effects individually and highlights the need for support for caregivers through social workers, nurses and support groups.

From the Paper:

"When a loved one, especially a parent is plagued with Alzheimer's disease, in many cases the family is first to step up and provide daily care. Astounding percentages of people are involved in the care giving of a loved one within the context of the immediate family, "Nearly 25% of all U.S. households, or 22 million people, are involved in family caregiving for an older relative or friend," (Durant & Christian 1). This is a huge percentage of the American population who are forced to deal with family care and all of the stresses and mental trauma that comes with it. Several different studies show the extent of thee mental stress of caring for a loved one and how it can negatively affect the mental health an well-being of the caretaker involved; this is especially true within the context of caring for a patient suffering from Alzheimer's disease, "Caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease are at an increase risk of mental and physical problems as a result of the strain that accompanies this role," (Sanders & Adams 287). These caregivers within the family are faced with unique challenges and are defined by a unique role which governs their interaction with their diseased loved one. Out of all of the family caretakers, "Almost three-fourths of caregivers are women," (Durant & Christian 1)."

Sample of Sources Used:

  • Durant, Thomas J. & Christian, Ollie G. "Caregiving to Aging Patients." Forum on Public Policy: A Journal of the Oxford Round Table. Questia.com. 2007.
  • Powell, Lenore S. & Courtice, Katie. Alzheimer's Disease: A Guide for Families." Perseus Publishing. Redding MA. 1993.
  • Rubio, Doris McGartland; Berg-Weger, Maria; & Tebb, Susan S. "Assessing the Validity and Reliability of Well-Being and Stress in Family Caregivers." Social Work Research. 1999. 23(1):54-68.
  • Sanders, Sandra & Adams, Kathryn Betts. "Grief Reactions and Depression in Caregivers of Individuals with Alzheimer's Disease: Results from a Pilot Study in an Urban Setting." Social Work. 2005. 30(4):287-293.

Cite this Analytical Essay:

APA Format

Caring for a Parent with Alzheimer's (2012, January 19) Retrieved September 29, 2023, from https://www.academon.com/analytical-essay/caring-for-a-parent-with-alzheimer-s-150020/

MLA Format

"Caring for a Parent with Alzheimer's" 19 January 2012. Web. 29 September. 2023. <https://www.academon.com/analytical-essay/caring-for-a-parent-with-alzheimer-s-150020/>

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