Often the caregiver is faced with the clear decline of health and impending death of the person they care for, raising the issue of anticipatory grief. The closer the bond between caregiver and receiver, the more stressful the specter of death. Regardless of how close the relationship, proximity to the death process may be more stressful to the informal caregiver than to one who, by training or experience, is better prepared for this eventuality. This in itself is stressful and draining. The emotional well-being of the caregiver is important due to the effect it has on physical health and on the quality of communication and interaction.
Many caregivers have difficulty getting away because they feel guilty or selfish.
However, research shows that by caring for themselves the caregiver will provide better care. Breaks and significant periods of respite for the caregiver are most important tools for maintaining the health and well-being of the individual caregiver. The physical demands of caregiving can be as difficult as the emotional problems. It is important to look at what caregivers can do to support themselves physically, because much stamina and energy are necessary to provide care over a long period. Even in the best of situations, family caregivers need emotional support and occasional relief.