According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, nearly 25 percent of American households care for someone 50 or older. In addition, about 20 to 40 percent of all caregivers look after children under 18. Caring for others can be a demanding task.
Many caregivers don t have any outside help and feel as if they re being taken for granted.
Watching the physical or mental deterioration of a loved one and dealing with changing problems in a previously responsible adult can be emotionally devastating. On average, caregivers spend about 73 hours a week helping another adult. They often help with housekeeping, shopping, and preparing meals and then perform those same duties at home. Caregivers may have little time left for friends, family, or recreational activities. The stress and demands of caregiving can take a toll.