Jan 23, 2012

Sobering statistics

"One-third of all American adults are taking care of their ill or disabled relatives and that number is expected to grow. And an estimated 70 percent of all caregivers are women, according to Richard Nix, executive vice president of Aging Care, a website that provides resources and an online community."

This article at abc.go.com goes on to say that the woman in the story, Catherine Graves, went on to lose her mind because of the stress of providing caregiving for her husband.  While, I think, most of us will not endure mental illness from caregiving, this article makes it it clear that that is possible.  Even if we maintain our mental health, caregivers are more likely to suffer chronic physical illness.  That is why I stress proactive strategies:  daily exercise and meditation, good nutrition, restorative sleep, social connectedness and fun:  all are imperative to our own well being, especially as caregivers.

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