Research by the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP shows that 63 million people (approximately one in every four adults) in the U.S are caregivers, primarily to seniors. A 50% increase since 2015. This big chunk of the population is safeguarding and providing essential support to individuals with chronic issues, disabilities, or serious health concerns. But who helps them?
The report also outlines the burdens on caregivers. 40% provide intensive care (some without training), 1 in 5 report poor health, 7 in 10 do jobs in addition to caregiving (with their work being impacted), and more than half note a negative financial impact. In New Jersey alone, 1,856,000 individuals are caregivers, and 32% of them don’t receive any help.
So what does this mean for families in South Jersey? Let’s unpack.
Local Impact on Families
Primary caregivers in places like Camden County, Burlington County, and Gloucester County, NJ, face unique challenges. They have a profound responsibility to care for their loved ones daily and manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Not only do most juggle work alongside basic caregiving, but they also manage medical appointments, administering medications, household tasks, and more. Especially as working adults, it is easy to get stuck in a cycle of heightened stress and burnout. All the while, the emotional and physical demands on the primary caregiver can ripple through the entire household.
Everything Professional Caregivers Can Do
When helping your loved one gets too tough, hiring a professional at-home senior caregiver can be life-changing. The job of caregiving goes beyond basic assistance. Professional caregivers are specially trained for:
- Medical Support– This includes medication reminders, support with appointments, and assisting with patients dealing with dementia, alzheimers, etc.
- Companionship– Being dependent is hard. Caregivers have the special job of uplifting patients with social engagements, activities, and providing emotional support.
- Meal Prep – Professional companions for seniors also take care of nutrition by cooking healthy meals designed for their particular dietary needs.
- Personal Care Assistance – They help with bathing, dressing, grooming, and more, to ensure seniors are feeling their best.
- Housekeeping – Caregivers assist with light household chores like laundry, dishes, groceries, etc.
- Respite Care – At-home senior care assures families of their loved one’s safety and the chance for primary caregivers to find relief from burnout.
The important thing is to recognize caregiving as the job and full-time responsibility it is. Seeking support is healthy and sustainable in the long term for both the seniors involved and their families.
Get the Necessary Support You Need
Professional caregiving doesn’t just help families balance their responsibilities, but also helps seniors retain their independence and comfort in their own homes.
Lisa’s Companions and Caregivers have been on the mission to support families and provide companionship to seniors in South Jersey for over 15 years. We know the complexities of caregiving. The safety, comfort, and independence of your loved one is our number one priority. Whether you need help with basic assistance or specialized support, our award-winning team is ready to help.
Take the first step towards peace of mind. Connect with our compassionate caregivers today.