Survey Shows Burden of Alzheimer’s Caregiving on Working Mothers

The duties of caregiving can require a great amount of time and energy.  The effects of Alzheimer’s or dementia can put an especially great strain on both a caregiver’s physical and mental well-being.  A nursing home or professional caregiver can provide respite for a burned-out caregiver.

The results of a new survey released by Working Mother Media highlights the growing number of women serving as a primary caregiver for a family member with dementia.

The Alzheimer’s Association® acted as a knowledge partner on the survey, “Women and Alzheimer’s disease: The Caregiver’s Crisis,” which reveals the increasing demands on women to balance career, parenthood and caregiving.

 ·      More than half of caregivers had to adjust their work schedules to accommodate caregiving and 39 percent passed up a promotion.

 ·      55 percent of caregivers are not saving for retirement.

·      65 percent of caregivers have not had a vacation in the past year.

The survey results reveal that 49 percent of current caregivers feel overwhelmed. The Alzheimer’s Association provides information, support and resources to caregivers in need. Visitors to the new Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregiver Center can access:

·       Practical caregiving tips for every stage of the disease.

·       Advice on how to manage a wide range of caregiving issues, from daily care to safety issues to planning for the future.

·       Information on managing stress and coping with emotions related to caregiving.

·       Information on local support groups and AlzConnected, an online community for people with the disease and their caregivers.

The Alzheimer's Association encourages you to visit the alz.org/care for support and information on how to care for an individual with Alzheimer’s disease while maintaining your own well-being or call 800.272.3900.