Caregivers and elderly Parents Stress

There are many sources of stress for caregivers as well as elderly parents. The pressures of day to day care, loss of loved ones, and all too often financial issues. Many seniors become frustrated once they realise that they are no longer able to take care of themselves and have to rely of their children to take care of their needs. This causes stress mentally and takes its toll physically and emotionally, causing many seniors to depend of alcohol or prescription drugs which in turn also leads to illness, depression, insomnia and many other health conditions.

Many seniors have the constant fear of developing Alzheimer`s or Parkinson`s whilst they are also fighting the battle of arthritis or chronic pain which often causes depression. As we all know that the saying goes “money isn`t everything” and it certainly isn`t, but the lack of it causes enough stress, so we have to say that financial worries certainly have a rippled effect on one`s life and health. Anxiety over lack of funds seems to hang over many elderly people, and unfortunately affects the way they eat, having to cut back on healthy nutritious meals.

Caregivers have issues of frustration and depression as well whilst caring for elderly parents. They often feel isolated and overwhelmed and reach the stage of burnout which is not healthy for both the caregiver and the elderly person. The demands of the elderly both emotionally and physically drains the caregivers resources and patience which often leads to guilt feelings on the part of the caregiver. It is important to have enough support whilst caregiving so that one can actually have a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction during these years.

Whilst caregivers do their best to keep things running smoothly, they can find that they suffer from pounding heart rate or even chest pains, headaches, muscle aches and pains, difficulty sleeping, diarrhea or constipation, or a change in weight whether it be loss or gain. At this stage one should evaluate the situation and seek help from family members or friends to allow the caregiver some much needed time out.

If one becomes moody or erratic and short tempered, it has a detrimental effect on all concerned, so that “time out” is of utmost importance just so that the caregiver feels that they have some quality time to themselves to do whatever pleases or satisfies them. After having regular time off, one feels refreshed and can enjoy giving their time to those in need.

Nutrition is always important in an individuals life. In time of need Meals on Wheels are committed to helping elderly people by providing them with nutritious, cooked meals.