Can Caregiver Stress Take Years Off Of One's Life?

According to recent research, the answer is yes. Researchers from Ohio State University and the federal National Institute of Aging studied the blood of Altzheimer's Disease caregivers and, in a previous study, mothers of chronically ill children. In both studies, biological changes were found that are attributed to chronic stress and associated with aging. (The findings were reported this month and published in the Journal of Immunology.)

This may come as no surprise to caregivers, and should reinforce the importance of stress management and self care for caregivers. The following article on caregiver stress provides ideas and resources for those caring for loved ones.

Caregiver Stress and Stress Relief Techniques

Also See:

• Common Causes of Caregiver Stress

• Self Care Strategies

• Stress Relievers for Your Personality and Lifestyle