Americans are at risk for stroke. In fact, one in three adults in the US suffers from at least one risk factor. With high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, and diabetes all identified as the leading causes of stroke, it behooves us all to be mindful of the effects of this dreaded affliction. Unfortunately, many who suffer from a stroke need help with care in the short-term, if not the long-term. Often this is left to family members, more often than not, it is the spouses of the stroke victim.
Primary Caregivers of Stroke Victims: Family
There are many studies on stroke victims and their recovery. However, it is important to keep in mind their primary caregivers – mainly their spouses. Being a caretaker of a stroke victim can be very stressful and requires a large amount of time, energy and devotion. We must remember that the spouses of stroke victims are also often elderly with their own health issues and find it difficult, and sometimes even impossible, to cope with these stressors. As well, this problem often exacerbates whatever illnesses they have themselves.
Research Uncovers Substantial Issues
A study from the American Heart Association Journal Stroke, evaluated the mental and physical health of spouses of stroke victims. The goal was to determine the long-term effects of the stresses associated with caring for stroke victims. This study demonstrates the importance of understanding the effects of a stroke on the spouses, as well as the stroke victims themselves.
Much research was performed to determine the consequences of a stroke in a family from a short-term perspective. However, this particular study was interested in how it affected the couple and family in the long-term.
Swedish researchers examined 248 stroke survivors. Their spouses were evaluated and compared to 245 non-stroke caregiver spouses over the course of 7 years. Researchers examined several mental and physical aspects of life for the spouses of stroke victims. Overall, the spouses experienced more health issues, less vitality and decreased socialization functions than the control subjects.
Effects on the Family Caregiver
The study demonstrated that caring for a stroke victim over the long haul has negative effects on the health related quality of life of the spouse acting as family caregiver. The demanding nature of the work has an effect on both the mental and physical health of spouses. In fact, spouses caring for stroke survivors scored lower on general health compared with spouses of controls. The physical stresses resulted in an increased risk for coronary heart disease, stroke, and premature death. It is important to note that the depressive symptoms of stroke survivors can very well have adverse effects on the mental health of the caregiving spouse. The mental stresses of dealing with a depressive charge as well as any depressing effects of dealing with their own situation led to a lower mental health score as well.
Of note, the with the affected spouse suffering from compromised health over time, it impacts their ability to carry out the physical activities in daily life necessary for both themselves and their stroke survivor spouse. This factor is of critical importance for families mapping out care plans going forward and tailoring support for caregivers.
Sole Caregiver Might Be Too Much
Depending on the severity of the stroke and needs of the affected spouse, caring for the stroke survivor can be a full-time job. It can also increase the caregivers’ stress level. As such, it can prevent them from getting regular physical activity they need to stay fit. Also, it can discourage them from going out to socialize with friends and family. Furthermore, caring for a loved one may mean a spouse has to quit their job, placing additional financial stress on the family.
Many spouses feel a responsibility to their loved ones and are hesitant to reach out for help. This is true even when that undertaking becomes too much to handle alone. However, as this study reveals, the burden of caring for a spouse after a stroke can take huge tolls. It can have a real impact in terms of the mental and physical health of the caregiver. Clearly, there needs to be a more in-depth look at the long-term support of the family if society is to successfully weather the oncoming wave of stroke survivor care going forward.
Home Healthcare Can Be a Lifeline
Often times, the best way to ensure the health of both the stroke survivor and their spouse is often to enlist the help of a home health aide. The easiest and most efficient way of getting help is through a home healthcare agency. Agencies understand how difficult and life-changing a stroke can be, not only for the survivor but for their spouse as well. Life as you’ve known it has changed, and it is okay to ask for help. Experienced home healthcare professionals can provide the compassionate and personalized care that your loved one needs, allowing you the time to nurture your own mental and physical wellness. They also fully vet and ensure all state regulations from a health and financial perspective are followed.
For additional information about stroke risks or about arranging care for a loved one who has suffered from a stroke, David York Agency today.
David York Agency Homecare Helps Seniors in Brooklyn
At David York Agency, we understand the many challenges and risks faced by the aging and elderly. We are dedicated to providing care to support them through all of those ups and downs. At David York Home Healthcare Agency, extraordinary service is what sets us apart from other companies in Brooklyn that provide in home healthcare services.
DYA we could provide direction as to how to manage the total care of your senior loved one. Whatever your care needs, we are there for you, always striving to exceed your expectations. For more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at (718) 376-7755. A free phone consultation can help you determine what services would meet your needs. We aim to provide you and your loved one with the assistance they need. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on X or LinkedIn.
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