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Today's caregivers are not alone, and represent a very large, diverse group. Although there are many nurses and professional caregivers that serve in this role, family members make up about 80 to 90 percent of the caregivers of the elderly. About 75 percent of the caregivers are women. The majority of these are mostly daughters who are caring for an aging parent. In many cases an elderly spouse starts out as the primary caregiver, but eventually passes the baton on to their adult daughters and sons when they become overwhelmed or their own health begins to suffer. Estimates vary, but currently there are probably over 10 million older people that require some type of assistance in performing their day-to-day activities. In 2006 there were 37.3 million people that were 65 or older, representing 12.4 percent of the U.S. population. That is approximately 1 out of every 8 Americans, and is expected to grow to about 20 percent by the year 2030. The good news is that people are living longer than ever before, and people over 65 have much experience and talent to offer. In fact many folks are still healthy and active into their 80s, 90s or beyond. However, sooner or later you may be in a position where you need some assistance for yourself, or you are providing care for someone else. In our particular situation, my mother-in-law was diagnosed with Alzheimer's at a fairly young age (late fifties). Her husband faithfully cared for her for a number of years, sheltering the kids until her condition began to noticeably decline. At that point, they moved closer to where the kids were so that they could provide some assistance for their dad. This worked well for about 4 years, and he was able to golf several times a week and get some much needed breaks. Then, he suddenly passed away. My mother-in-law then moved in with us, and my wife became the primary caregiver. We are blessed to have many family and friends that help out. Her brother and sister and their families help out regularly, caring for their mother a couple days each week and on every other weekend. Normally, we all work together to cover the caregiving so that each family gets away, if possible, for a family vacation each year to relax. Although being a caregiver is never easy, it is rewarding. Even though my mother-in-law cannot communicate or do much on her own, it is always neat to see her smiling or humming along while she is listening to an old familiar song. It is important to put together the right team of family, friends, and paid caregivers so that your loved one is well cared for and you get regular breaks. Your loved one's care is important, but make sure that each of the caregivers also takes good care of themselves.
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