Glossary > Healthcare > Geriatric Care > General

Caregiver Support

Caregiver support refers to services, resources, and assistance provided to individuals who care for a loved one in need of help due to aging, illness, or disability. This support aims to empower and aid caregivers in managing their responsibilities effectively, ensuring the well-being of both the caregiver and the care recipient.

Example #1

An adult child caring for their aging parent with dementia receives caregiver support through respite care services, which allow them to take breaks while professionals provide care.

Example #2

A spouse taking care of their partner recovering from surgery accesses caregiver support groups to connect with others facing similar challenges and gain emotional support.

Misuse

Misuse of caregiver support can occur when caregivers are provided with inadequate training or resources, leading to burnout, neglect of the care recipient, or compromised quality of care. It is crucial to ensure that caregiver support programs are comprehensive and tailored to address the specific needs of each caregiver and care recipient.

Benefits

Caregiver support offers benefits such as reducing caregiver stress, preventing burnout, improving the quality of care provided to the care recipient, enhancing the overall well-being of both parties, and fostering a supportive community for caregivers.

Conclusion

By advocating for robust caregiver support programs and resources, individuals can better navigate the challenges of caregiving, maintain their own health and well-being, and provide optimal care to their loved ones. Promoting caregiver support aligns with CAP's mission of empowering consumers and employees in the healthcare sector.

Related Terms

PatientElder AbusePalliative Care