Dear Readers:

Today’s column continues last week’s discussion about caregiving.

Reader W.R. wrote about his concern for his sister, who is caring for her husband while she is working 30 hours a week. her signs of stress, anger and depression have W.R. and his wife worried. they want to help and aren’t sure how.

It is frustrating to stand by and witness a family member suffering from the responsibilities of caregiving compounded by work demands. Yet, caregiving and work seem to be the norm, with two-thirds of U.S. caregivers working outside the home.

We know that over a long period of time, ongoing stress can jeopardize one’s health. the Family Caregiver Alliance summarizes a substantial body of research about family members who provide care to loved ones and who themselves are at risk. Here are some of the findings:

Approximately 40 percent to 70 percent of caregivers have clinically significant symptoms of depression.

Depressed caregivers are more likely to also have anxiety disorders, substance abuse or dependence problems, and chronic disease.

Caregivers who experience chronic stress may be at greater risk for losses in short-term memory and attention.

About one in 10 caregivers report that caregiving has caused their physical health to get worse.

Studies indicate that caregivers have a diminished immune response, leading to frequent infection and increased risk of cancers. they also have a higher level of stress hormones and a lower level of antibodies.

they are at greater risk than non-caregivers for high blood pressure and heart disease.

Caregivers reported chronic conditions including heart attack, heart disease, cancer, diabetes and arthritis at nearly twice the rate of non-caregivers.

Nearly three-quarters report that they have not gone to the doctor as often as they should and more than half missed their own doctor’s appointments.

These are disturbing facts. Yet, some may be preventable, particularly if one follows tips recommended by the Mayo Clinic.

The first tip is to ask for help, which comes in many forms. Forget about the guilt:

Non-medical home health care: this involves a caregiver, such as a home health aide, who is trained to provide support in bathing, dressing, eating and housekeeping.

Home health care: this type of care involves a skilled professional who provides medical care in the home. These professionals might be registered nurses or certified nursing aides.

Adult day care centers: the centers are designed for older adults who cannot manage independently or who are isolated and lonely.

Respite care: this is short-term care by another, so the primary caregiver can take some time off and rest. the respite person might be a family member, friend or professional who assumes the responsibilities. Such short-term care also is provided by assisted living facilities, nursing homes and hospice inpatient facilities.

Caregiver retreats: These getaways combine respite with peer support and education. the Los Angeles Caregiver Resource Center holds them three times a year. call 818-847-9141, Ext. 108.

A second “big” tip is to find time for physical activity, adequate sleep and eating a healthy diet. These all require focused intention and are not easy to accomplish.

Finally, be informed. the following resources may be helpful:

Caregiver support groups are a great source for advice and encouragement. Consider support groups at Beach Cities Health District, 310-374-3426, Ext. 155, and Torrance Memorial Medical Center, 310-517-4666.

Support and assistance also can come from an online community. Go to

lotsahelpinghands.com, a free, private, Web-based method of organizing friends, family and colleagues into a community that helps with meal delivery, rides and visits.

For a list of agencies that provide home care, contact the Focal Point on Aging, a South Bay information and referral service, at 310-320-1300.

one final resource: “The Gifts of Caregiving: Stories of Hardship, Hope and Healing” (Fairview Press, 2002) by Connie Goldman. the book consists of realistic and inspiring conversations with caregivers, including the late Dana Reeve, wife of the late actor Christopher Reeve; and former first lady Rosalynn Carter.

W.R., thank you for your good question and kudos to you for being a caring friend to your sister. Best wishes in having a positive influence on her caregiving decisions.

Helen Dennis is a specialist in aging, with academic, corporate and nonprofit experience. Send her your questions and concerns in care of the Daily Breeze, 21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503, or e-mail to .