A new study shows wives and daughters are the most likely long-term caregivers for Alzheimer's patients. The Alzheimer's Association says relatives put in an average of 40 hours of care each week. According to CBS 2 News, the personal effects of this responsibility on the caregiver is now being studied. The Alzheimer's Association and the National Alliance for Caregiving found caregivers often deal with the most challenging levels of care, such as incontinence and feeding. As a result, CBS 2 News reports, doctors say the toll on caregivers is immense.
Half suffer from depression.
Willie Mae Long said she feels responsible for her mother with Alzheimer's. Well, she's my mom. Even though I get so tired sometimes. Long is getting help from a nationwide project designed to find the best way to relieve the stress of caring for an Alzheimer's patient. Case workers involved in the project help caregivers find solution to their personal problems, like finding time for themselves and learning how Alzheimer's is affecting their loved one's behavior.