Resounding Evidence for Family Caregiver Support

I was alarmed to read a news release this morning. This news release, from the Family Caregivers' Network Society, explained that two new studies just released by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) highlight the significant role that family members and friends play in caring for our country's ailing seniors.

Among the study findings are the following points:

• One in six people who care for an ailing senior at home are in distress.
• Distress is highest when caring for over 21 hours per week, caring for someone with depression and cognition problems and those displaying aggressive behaviour.
• Dementia care is particularly stressful.
• Support is critical in maintaining family caregiver health.

It could be well worth your time to read the full CIHI report regarding this study. To access this, just Google search the term "CIHI Report Supporting Informal Caregivers - The Heart of Home Care".