Older people who devote long hours to looking after a frail partner or relative are paying a steep price in lost sleep, stress and declining health, according to new research from the Karolinska Institutet’s Ageing Research Center (ARC).
The nationwide survey of 31,000 people aged 65 and above identified 2,157 informal carers; nearly one in five of them clocked more than 30 hours of care a week. Tasks ranged from bathing and feeding to managing finances and providing company.
“Our study shows that older caregivers who provide high-intensity care often experience negative consequences for their own life and well-being, and have greater needs for support from various sources,” said Mariam Kirvalidze, the ARC doctoral student who led the analysis, published in the Scandinavian Journal of Public Health.
Who carries the heaviest load?
Women, spouses and people over 75 were over-represented in the high-intensity group and reported the harshest side-effects: disturbed sleep, mental strain, fewer social contacts and less time for their own medical appointments. They also derived less personal satisfaction from the role than carers who helped only occasionally.
“It is clear that high-intensity care can be very demanding and negatively affect caregivers’ quality of life. We must ensure that these older caregivers receive the support they need to continue providing care without suffering serious health problems themselves,” said Associate Professor Amaia Calderón-Larrañaga, a senior author of the study.
Support gaps and policy implications
Respondents most frequently asked for respite services, one-to-one counseling and financial assistance. Kirvalidze argues that blanket programmes will miss the mark.
“A more detailed survey is needed at the municipal level to better understand and address the needs of all caregivers, especially of those who are older and more vulnerable, to ensure they receive the support they need,” she said. “By understanding their specific needs, we can create better conditions for both caregivers and make sure that care receivers stay home longer.”
Related: The sandwich generation dilemma: Jane Morrell sheds light on the challenges of balancing care
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
