You At Your Best

SPECIAL TO NWA DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE More than 34 million adults in the U.S. are caregivers — providing unpaid assistance and support — for an adult age 50 or older. According to a report published jointly by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, the average caregiver spends 24.4 hours a week tending to adults in their care; those caring for a spouse or partner, however, spend nearly 45 hours a week providing care. For many caregivers, this role can bring on stress that, if not addressed, can affect their health as well. "Emotional, mental and physical health problems often arise from the strains of providing care for those who are ill or disabled," says Darla Rowe, D.H.Sc., education manager at Washington Regional's Senior Health Clinic. "Caregiving is definitely a high-stress duty, and such chronic stress can impact all areas of functioning, particularly cognitive and emotional health," Dr. Rowe says. "Caregivers often are faced with unknowns about their loved ones' health and prognoses that lead to feelings of uncertainty, worry and a loss of sense of self or self-identity." The demands of caregiving, even if perceived as positive, can affect the caregiver's lifestyle and well- being. These changes in daily functioning impact physical, social and cognitive activity, and therefore can affect diet and sleep patterns, which further impacts overall health. "Caregiving can particularly take a toll on one's psychological health," Dr. Rowe says. "For instance, caregivers typically experience more depression and mental health problems than their peers who are not caregivers." Research shows that 40 to 70 percent of caregivers have clinically significant symptoms of depression, with up to half of these caregivers meeting the diagnostic criteria for clinical depression. Fortunately, there is help. Caregivers can benefit from joining a local support group or talking with other caregivers online, giving them an opportunity to acknowledge and validate their feelings. Even reading books about caregiving can equip caregivers with helpful information. "Learning from others about what to expect and how to cope more effectively with caregiving challenges can be empowering," Dr. Rowe says. While peer and professional support is of the utmost importance for caregivers, they also need to take time for themselves. Although caregivers have many demands on their time that can make it difficult to pursue self-care activities, even occasional short breaks can have a lasting impact on the well-being of both caregiver and care recipient. "Everyone has limits. Everyone needs a break occasionally," Dr. Rowe says. "By taking better care of yourself, you can take better care of your loved ones." Learn more about caregiver support options by contacting Dr. Rowe at 479.463.4438 or drowe@ wregional.com. Care for the caregiver 12 | YOU AT YOUR BEST | NWADG.COM/YOUATYOURBEST JUNE - MENTAL HEALTH | SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018

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