A new study states that although being a family caregiver for an older loved one is stressful, family caregivers tend to suffer lower rates of depression than the average individual in similar circumstances.
Why is this? The study didn’t have a precise answer. However, it stands to reason that there is a benefit in caring for others. Caregivers are under a lot of pressure, but they do a lot of good. This can be a very rewarding experience.
Yes, there are also negative things associated with being a caregiver for your family. But when it comes to mental health, caregivers tend to be in better shape, according to this study. They also stated that caregivers tend to live longer than non-caregivers do.
This is not a new concept. In fact, one of the most famous works on this subject was written by Viktor Frankl, a holocaust survivor. In his book, Man’s Search for Meaning, Frankl talks about the horrors of living in a concentration camp during the Second World War, and what he found helped people get through such a horrific experience. In the book, he stated that what worked for him–and what he saw work for others that he shared this experience with–was having a heightened sense of purpose.
There were three main things that people tended to find meaning in, according to Frankl. These included facing suffering with dignity, accomplishing a task or goal, or caring for another person or group of people.
This research came from a team at the University of Texas at Austin. They published their findings in the journal, Advances in Life Course Research. The field of psychology is always growing and there’s always room for more knowledge and bigger advances. Hopefully, this look at purpose and its place in families and senior care can help us continue to improve the quality of life that elderly individuals experience.
Perhaps you are acting as a family caregiver. If you find it rewarding, wonderful! Many people do, but many also find it to be draining and unfulfilling. There’s no right or wrong way to feel about being a caregiver. However, regardless of where you are with your emotional approach to this, you want to give the people in your life the best that you can. Sometimes, family caregivers are able to do this well without any help. Sometimes, professional care is needed.
If you’re looking for professional senior care, we can help. Our team of caregivers has extensive experience with needs of various types.
It can be tough to let someone come and help care for an older loved one. This might seem like giving up for some people. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. Connecting an older loved one to quality care is ensuring that they get the help that they need to thrive.
Paradise In-Home Care can help guide you through the process, answer questions, and connect you to the right resources for your loved one’s needs. Get in touch with us today to schedule a free consultation and help your family with their unique needs as they age.
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