Stroke is the leading cause of serious, long-term disability, and nearly 800,000 people will have a stroke this year. While some will fully recover, others may require assistance from someone known as a caregiver. Providing care to someone who is ill or disabled can be a rewarding experience, but at times, it can also be stressful.
The impact of caregiving
The impact of stroke is not only felt by the survivor, but also the network of those who provide care for the individual. As they provide direct care to their loved one, caregivers can feel challenged by the loss of their own productivity. They, too, can be troubled by the emotional and physical toll that comes with ongoing caretaking, such as:
- Depression or anxiety.
- Interrupted sleep.
- Feelings of powerlessness.
- Financial strain.
- Physical injury.
Caregivers and “burnout”
In the book Chronic Illness: Impact and Intervention, burnout is defined as the “mental, emotional or physical exhaustion because of long term exposure to emotionally demanding situations.” In one study of caregivers, three common themes emerged: being worried, running on empty, and losing self. It’s clear that caregiving itself can be a risk factor for decreased health.
Helping the caregiver
Supporting and assisting caregivers, understanding their new role, and offering guidance and coping strategies can all help a caregiver regain their own work-life balance. Events like stroke camps, support groups, and other programs can offer respite and opportunities to share experiences with others in similar situations.
The Stroke Camp offered by Rhode Island Hospital and the RI Stroke Coordinators Network is one example of a helpful network. Our fourth annual event is scheduled for September 9 at the Save the Bay campus in Providence, RI.
The camp opens with a continental breakfast followed by activities and entertainment, such as massage, art, and interpretive dance and movement. Afterwards, join us for the highlight of the day: a boat ride on Narragansett Bay! This enjoyable and relaxing experience for stroke caregivers and survivors is offered free of charge
For more information on attending this year’s Stroke Camp, please contact Jo-Ann Sarafin MS, CNP at 444-8807 or Cinthia Espinal at 444-8237.
For more information on stroke, please visit our Comprehensive Stroke Center.
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