Caring for an older adult can be rewarding and fulfilling, but can also place great physical, emotional, and financial demands on those who take care of them. More than 80% of late-life care is provided by unpaid family members. Sometimes the needs of a caregiver are secondary to those of the aged person in need of care. But failing to meet one's own needs can lead to stress, depression, and physical problems on the part of the caregiver.
Occupational therapists can help caregivers achieve a balance in which the older adult's needs are met as well as the rest of the family's.
Frequent depression and stress is a serious problem and could cause physical and emotional complications to all family members. Talk to your family physician or contact your local health officials for more information about occupational therapy.
Occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants are trained in helping people with a broad range of physical, developmental, and behavioral conditions. In addition to treating illness and disability, occupational therapy encourages wellness through a balance of healthy and meaningful life activities.
