Friday, November 06, 2015

November is Family Caregivers Month


November is National Family Caregivers Month, honoring all those who care for loved ones with physical and mental health issues. 

Here are some statistics for caregivers: 
  • There are more than 65 million people in the US alone who spend an average of 20 hours a week caring for a loved one.
  • 1.4 million children ages 8 to 18 provide care for an adult relative.
  • Approximately 66% of family caregivers are women. 
  • 14% of family caregivers care for a special needs child with an estimated 16.8 million caring for special needs children under 18 years old. 
  • Stress of family caregiving for persons with dementia has been shown to impact a person's immune system for up to three years after their caregiving ends thus increasing their chances of developing a chronic illness themselves.
  • 20% of caregivers over 50 years old report symptoms of depression compared to 8% of their non-caregiving peers.

Being a family caregiver takes patience, dedication and love. Make sure you celebrate those in your life who look out for you and your well-being - and if you're a caregiver, it's vital to make time to care for yourself.