It’s easy to notice when someone needs help with mobility, medications, or meals. What’s harder to see—but just as important—is how they’re doing emotionally. The truth is, senior emotional health and physical health are deeply connected. Loneliness can raise blood pressure, anxiety can rob a person of restful sleep, and depression can slow the body’s ability to heal.
If you’ve ever felt invisible as a family caregiver, you’re not alone. Caring for someone you love takes center stage, and you may find that your own needs are put on the back burner. A recent listening session, however, allowed us to find out firsthand what family caregivers say they need – and their feedback may surprise you. Here are some of the key findings and insights gleaned from these sessions.
How much extra time do you have on your hands? If you are like many family caregivers, carving out sufficient time to fulfill each day’s basic requirements may be hard enough. The thought of having regular intervals of downtime might seem unattainable.
The data is quite concerning: over 50% of caregivers suffer from caregiving injuries while lifting or transferring elderly individuals. As many family members step into caregiving roles, it’s vital for you to master the right techniques for safely moving and lifting to protect both your health and the well-being of the seniors you assist.