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. Several risk factors have been identified which may lead to or compound the stress of caring for an elderly adult .
Relationships can be complicated.
Conflict within families often initiates stress. Current events or catastrophic illnesses or accidents will undoubtedly lead to difficulties. Lack of adequate rest, exercise, diet, recreation, and socialization may cause undue stress. When the responsibilities of caregiving are combined with the demands of employment, the potential for stress on the individual caregiver can become genuinely dangerous to health and other family relationships. In the worst case scenario the employed caregiver may have to choose between career and family or between care for the elder and responding to the demands of other family members.