Another study has found that caregivers suffer depression at six times the national average. And even though many caregivers are reluctant to ask for help, this attitude can be dangerous. Because many older people are living with a chronic illness for 10 to 20 years, family involvement has become long-term. In fact, one of the biggest health care crises in the U.S. today, say doctors and psychologists, is the exhaustion and depression faced by people who care for aging relatives and friends, sometimes over decades. Doctors say that chronic stress breaks down the body's defenses, compromises the immune system and leads to diseases such as allergies, high blood pressure, ulcers, backaches, migraines and even heart attacks.
Caregivers often feel guilty if they turn over their duties to others.
But they are likely to burn out if they don't take steps to relieve the emotional pressure. This manifestation of stress can leave a person emotionally exhausted and feeling there is nothing left to give and no life beyond caregiving. Ultimately that despair and exhaustion can lead to placing a loved one in a nursing home sooner than may be necessary, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Porter feels lucky to have her eldest daughter's consistent help. I could never have brought him home if it hadn't been for her support.