Family caregivers, whether for a parent, child, another family member, or friend, often do not realize the impacts that may happen to their health and are at a higher risk of several complicated health-related issues themselves. In return, feeling burnt out can limit the quality of care that they can provide to the care recipients.
Respite Care Association of Wisconsin’s (RCAW’s) project manager, Rachel Watkins-Petersen addressed the matter, “Respite care is a critical public health intervention. The effects of round-the-clock caregiving often lead the caregiver to feel isolated, fatigued, depressed, and anxious. The mental health toll on primary caregivers often exacerbates physical health conditions. Data shows that caregivers report chronic health conditions, including heart attack/heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis, at nearly twice the rate of non-caregivers. Family caregivers must get a break from their duties, so they can rest, refresh, and recharge.”
The Health Impact on Caretakers
In 2019 the CDC studied caregivers and reported several unhealthy traits: