In the United States, more than 53 million people provide care for an adult or a child with a disability, representing more than 20% of the population. Many of these caregivers also hold full-time jobs they must balance with their caregiving responsibilities. Because almost two-thirds of U.S. households depend on two incomes, caregiving can be a financial stressor for many families, especially when layered on the recent inflationary pressures.
Four in 10 working adult caretakers are doing so for a parent, while almost 30% are caring for a special needs child. Twenty percent provide help to another family member and 18% to their spouse. When you consider how common caretaking is in this country, it is likely that either you or one of your co-workers are doing so or will be in the future. In addition, nearly a quarter of caregivers of elderly or sick adults also have young children under the age of 18.
The Stress of Caregiving
Being a caregiver can be an integral part of your life that brings feelings of accomplishment, love, and compassion. But it is important to recognize the significant stress it places on personal well-being. A 2023 report on caregiving in the U.S. by Guardian Life showed that 73% of all employees in the country have some kind of caregiving responsibility. The amount of time spent on care is significant and increasing. According to the study, in 2020 caregivers spent an average of nine hours per week providing care, and in 2023 that had increased to a mean of 26 hours per week. Almost half of respondents reported spending 10-29 hours of their week devoted to caregiving, and 27% reported spending 30 hours or more providing care. That kind of responsibility combined with the long work hours equine veterinarians and practice staff face is undoubtedly exhausting.
Research shows that balancing work and caregiving duties negatively impacts physical and mental health. It is essential that caregivers maintain their own health by keeping medical appointments and prioritizing self-care.
Support Services for Caregivers
Caregivers can find a variety of support services, including respite care, caregiver resource centers, and support groups, to help them manage the demands of caregiving. Many organizations exist that can help. For veterans, the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) Caregiver Support Program (CSP) offers clinical services to caregivers of eligible and covered veterans enrolled in the VA health care system. The United Way offers caregivers resources that are available by calling 211. CaringInfo, a program of the National Alliance for Care at Home, maintains a website full of resources for caregivers.
Final Thoughts
Seeking help can feel hard, but caregivers must attach value to maintaining their own wellness and prioritize caring for themselves. Many veterinarians routinely put others’ needs before their own as a way of life. But remember: It is essential to put on your own oxygen mask before helping others.
Related Reading
- Veterinary Wellness Briefs: When Cancer Strikes
- Veterinary Wellness Briefs: Aging Gracefully
- Veterinary Wellness Briefs: The Heartbreak of Estrangement
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