Letter: Family caregivers need support
Because of longer life spans, some elderly seniors may not be able to count on help from their children, who may themselves be in their 60s and 70s. Credit: Kacso Sandor
“The high cost of caregiving” [Business, March 7] pointed out the substantial financial and emotional costs to those who are responsible for caring for ailing and aged relatives.
However, it’s also important to note that caregivers have an elevated risk of problems stemming from increased stress, isolation and neglect of their own medical needs. They show higher risk of coronary problems, stroke and mortality compared with non-caregivers of similar ages.
More than 60 million people provide family care in the United States. These dedicated people perform services valued at more than $400 billion a year and deserve our support to lessen burdens on their finances, health and well-being.
Gloria S. Rothenberg, Merrick
Editor’s note: The writer is a psychologist.
