Resources For Dementia Caregivers During Covid-19
While having dementia does not increase the risk of getting the coronavirus, the populations that are more susceptible to Covid-19 are those who tend to also be affected by dementia-related symptoms.
Being a caregiver for a family member or friend who has dementia during the COVID-19 health crisis can add anxiety and additional burden to daily life. Even during the most optimistic of times being a caregiver can be a stressful role, and those shouldering overwhelming responsibilities can become melancholy and disconnect from healthy self-care practices.
Over the long-term, the lack of readily available tools and resources to lighten stress levels could end up having a profound negative impact on caregivers’ physical and physiological state, work productivity, social connectedness and ultimately psychological well-being.
It’s critically important that caregivers prioritize their own mental well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic so you can stay well after this acute crisis is over.
Sarah McEwen, PhD, NSCA-CPT, Director of Research and Programming, and Mihae Kim, AGNP-BC, Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner, at the Pacific Brain Health Center have put together a comprehensive guide of resources for caregivers of patients living with dementia.
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