Caregiver Stress Related to Abuse

We might have a hard time believing this – studies say that 50 percent of family caregivers demonstrate abusive behavior towards the family member with dementia that they are caring for. In the past, abuse has been seen as a problem for caregivers being paid to provide care. Research and culture change has focused primarily on those who receive compensation for their time with someone with dementia. Often the assumption has been that those with dementia are safer with their families than in long term care settings.

The research finds that 50 percent of all caregivers admit to occasionally screaming or yelling at their loved ones, while 33 percent admit to frequent insulting or cursing at the loved one in their care. 1.4 percent admits to physical abuse.

Although abuse should never be tolerated, it is easy to see how caregivers can feel pushed into a corner and make such a critical mistake. The stress of providing care 24/7 can be overwhelming. Often the care of the person with dementia will fall onto just one caregiver, even in a big family.

The stress of being with a person who isn’t able to remember current events, becomes paranoid or agetated, or isn’t able to provide care for himself can be more overwhelming than caring for a small infant.

Check daily to ensure that the caregivers in your family are not feeling stressed out or in a dangerous situation. Watch for signs such as anger, anxiety, social withdrawal, depression, exhaustion, sleeplessness, and irritability. These are all warning signs that more help is needed.

Here are a few tips to remember:

1. Schedule one day off a week. Ask for help from family, friends, adult daycare centers, or companion services.  Participate in activities that are not related to caregiving.
2. Be an informed caregiver.  Attend educational seminars or other events that provide education about dementia and teach how to make the days more enjoyable
3. Don’t be a Supermom or Super-daughter.  It’s okay to ask for help. Visit your doctor regularly as well as having your loved one visit his/her doctor regularly.
4. Take credit, not guilt, for all of the good work you are doing!

If you are feeling stressed or burnt out because of caregiver stress, please let us know.  We’re your local experts. Contact us and let us know what would give you a little relief.