Memory Loss Among Caregivers

"Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is defined as self-reported memory problems that have been getting worse over the past year. A new CDC study found that about 1 in 8 unpaid caregivers who are 45 or older has SCD. SCD was more common among caregivers (12.6%) than noncaregivers (10.2%).

The result is tens of thousands of people are reporting signs that their memory is getting worse. Compared to noncaregivers, SCD was more common among caregivers who were men, employed, and aged 45 to 64 and who have chronic health conditions.¹

The Important Role of Caregiving

Millions of adults could not maintain their independence without the support of unpaid caregivers. As the older adult population continues to increase, caregivers will be relied on more than ever to provide support to family members and friends.² In the United States, 79% of caregivers provide care for adults 50 or older, and 76% of care recipients are 65 or older.³

 Caregiving often requires cognitive accuracy. Almost 80% of caregiverspdf icon help manage household tasks, such as finances, cleaning, and preparing meals. More than 50% help with personal tasks, such as managing medications, feeding, dressing, or bathing.

Nearly 1 in 5 caregivers reports fair or poor health,⁴ and those with SCD are more likely to have at least one chronic health condition.¹ SCD and other health conditions may affect a caregiver’s ability to provide care for their family and friends, including their ability to manage appointments and medicines.

Lifestyle Choices for Risk Reduction

Caregivers can help reduce their risk for memory loss by making positive lifestyle choices. These choices include being physically active, eating healthy meals, getting enough sleep, drinking alcohol in moderation, and not smoking.

To avoid creating more stress for themselves, caregivers can make these changes gradually. For example, getting an additional 30 minutes of sleep at night, getting an annual physical exam, or simply taking a walk every day may make a big difference in cognitive health. Caregivers should talk to a medical professional if they feel their memory is changing or getting worse..."
Memory and caregivers 

Supporting Caregivers

"An Emerging Public Health Issue

Millions of older adults and people with disabilities could not maintain their independence without the help of unpaid caregivers. This care would cost nearly $470 billion a year if purchased. That’s one of the reasons that caregiving is an essential public health service and should be prioritized as an emerging public health issuepdf icon.¹

Caregivers are family members or friends who typically provide unpaid, long-term, community-based care and assistance to older adults and people with chronic health conditions or disabilities.  Caregivers help with a variety of routine tasks such as shopping, paying bills, bathing, dressing, and managing medicines.  They are often a source of emotional support and companionship for care recipients.

Caregivers: A Snapshot

• 58% of caregivers are women.
• Almost one-third of caregivers provide care at least 20 hours a week.
• Caregivers typically learn as they go and aren’t formally trained.
• 79% of caregivers care for adults aged 50 or older, and 76% of care recipients are aged 65 years and older.² 
• One in 6 non-caregivers expects to become a caregiver within two years.

Increasing Demand for Caregivers

The need for caregivers is growing along with the aging of the US population. The number of caregivers increased from 43.5 million in 2015 to about 53 million in 2020, or more than 1 in 5 Americans.³ By 2030, an estimated 73 million people in the United States will be 65 years or older.⁴ Many will require daily assistance from at least one caregiver to maintain quality of life, independence, and physical and social well-being. More than two-thirds of the US population will likely need help with tasks at some point in their lifetime.⁵

Benefits of Caregiving for Recipients and Caregivers

Caregiving allows recipients to:

• Retain their quality of life and independence.
• Avoid living in a group setting (institutionalization).
• Have less depression.
• Self-manage their chronic conditions better.

Caregiving can also benefit caregivers by helping them:

• Increase their self-confidence and fulfillment from helping others.
• Start or add to social networks of friendships associated with caregiving.
• Feel needed and useful.
• Learn and develop new skills..."
  Caregivers 

Caregivers

"Caregiving

 Helping Alzheimer’s Caregivers
Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias can be challenging. People with dementias may stop recognizing the person who is caring for them, can have trouble sharing their desires and feelings, and may become completely dependent upon their caregiver for daily activities such as eating, using the restroom, and bathing.

Emergency Preparedness for Older Adults
You or the person you care for can be prepared for emergency situations by creating a plan, reviewing or practicing it regularly, and keeping an emergency supply kit.

Care Plans Help Both Older Adults and Caregivers
Caregivers are often family members or friends of a person who is in need of care. Caregivers may manage everything from medications and getting dressed in the morning to doctor appointments, social events, and meals..."
Caregivers

National Family Caregivers Month

"November is National Family Caregivers Month. Over the course of our lifetime, many of us will find ourselves taking care of a loved one with a disease or disability who may need temporary or long-term assistance with daily activities. Being a caregiver, or what is often referred to as a "care partner," can be fulfilling by offering the opportunity to provide a loved one, friend, or neighbor with needed help and reassurance. However, this role can also affect the life of the care partner in significant and often.."
National Caregivers Month