Toll on Caregivers

"1/3 of caregivers will die providing care, 1/3 will have their health damaged significantly, and 1/3 will come through the caregiving being better for the experience."  Roslyn Carter Institute

A friend of mine and of this blog, a caregiver whose husband died about 1 1/2 years ago, is dealing with a significant health issue.  I am so sad about this, and it emphasizes the statistics quoted above.  Caregiving is extremely stressful.  That stress will take a toll, usually physically, unless we have sufficient support and unless we can prevent being consumed by the caregiving.  Please do not let guilt or meddling relatives prevent you from getting the respite you need from caregiving.  There is respite available.  You deserve to have it.  Please do not let these diseases take the caregiver along with the care receiver.