Caregiver syndrome
Caregiver syndrome or caregiver stress is a condition of exhaustion, anger, rage, or guilt that results from unrelieved caring for a chronically ill dependent.[1] The term is often used by health care professionals, but it is not listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
The number of people at risk is significant. The American Academy of Geriatric Psychiatrists reports one out of four American families provide care for a family member over the age of 50. By 2030, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates a population of 71 million Americans over 65.[2] In the U.K., over 450,000 dementia patients are cared for at home.
Symptoms include depression, anxiety, and anger. Chronic stress can create medical problems including high blood pressure, diabetes, and a compromised immune system.[2] The impact may reduce the caregiver's life expectancy by an average of seven years.
The American Academy of Family Physicians and the National Center on Caregiving both believe all caregivers should be screened for stress and depression and recommend providing caregivers with their own resources to help them cope.[2]
[edit] References
- ^ Christine Anne Piesyk (2009-08-23). "Caregiver Syndrome: Reality for many caregivers dealing with Dementia". Clarksvilleonline.com. http://www.clarksvilleonline.com/2007/08/23/caregiver-syndrome-reality-for-many-caregivers-dealing-with-dementia/. Retrieved 2009-11-05.
- ^ a b c Andree LeRoy. "Exhaustion, anger of caregiving get a name". CNN.com. Turner Broadcasting System, Inc.. http://www.cnn.com/2007/HEALTH/conditions/08/13/caregiver.syndrome/index.html. Retrieved 2009-11-05.
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