The Effects of Elder Care

Elder care refers to the provision of assistance to persons who are 65 or older who have a functional impairment that prevents them from living independently. A variety of tasks are associated with being a caregiver. Tasks can range from providing the patient with transportation to helping him with bathing and dressing. Performing all of these tasks daily can affect the caregiver in both emotional and physical ways. Care giving can have an effect on the patient as well.

Effects on Elder Care Recipients

• Mature adults who receive care from a caregiver can often suffer from depression. Depression in elderly adults can happen for many reasons, such as loss of a spouse, loss of friends or loss of other family members. Elderly adults can also suffer from depression because of their health. Their physical functioning could be impaired, preventing them from engaging in social activities, which can give a reduced sense of value as a person.

Effects on Elder Care Givers

• Providing elder care can adversely affect the caregiver's mental and physical health. According to a study done at Pennsylvania University, 60 percent experienced some sort of emotional or physical strain. Effects of care giving can lead to depression, anxiety, loss of sleep and increased usage of alcohol. A positive effect of care giving is that it increases self-worth and also increases contentment with life.

Effect on Women Care

• According to the Family Caregiving Alliance, 65 percent of elder persons who need long-term care will rely on family members for it. Women are 55 percent more likely to become a caregiver to a family member than men. In addition, this organization also states that the average female caregiver is married, 45 years old and also works outside the home. She also brings in an average salary of $35,000 per year. Because care giving is gendered, it can be more difficult for a woman to be a caregiver and maintain a career.