In this week’s Keys to Caring, often caregivers are so focused on helping their loved ones that they forget to take care of themselves.
Lack of sleep and not eating right mixed with the stress of being a caregiver can be detrimental to your health. A study shows that over 60 percent of caregivers pass away before the person they're caring for.
The Alzheimer’s Association says important things to remember while taking care of a loved one are to get enough sleep, proper nutrition and surround yourself with support.
“Make sure that they have a support system or a support group. See their doctor regularly, and we encourage them that if the need assistance they should look for respite and outside help if they are feeling very stressed,” stated Candy Yingling of the Alzheimer’s Association. “We don't want them to end up in the 60 percent category where the person does decease before the person they're caring for.”
For more information about how caregivers should take care of themselves, click on the Keys to Caring tab.
