Caregivers Experiencing Higher Levels Of Stress Than Before The Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unique challenges for some senior caregivers.

According to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, stress doesn’t just affect your mood, but it can have long-term health impacts as well.

“It’s heartbreaking for them every single day having to relearn what all the rules are and can’t see their family,” Mcintire said.

Tyler Mcintire is passionate about being a caregiver.

“There really is a need for people who care about doing this,” Mcintire said.

Mcintire said her passion and the support from her family helped get her through one of the toughest years at Senior Helpers in Tulsa.

She cares for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. She said she feels the weight of the added stress of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I have to remind them every day what is going on and why the world is so different right now and where their families are and why they can’t see them,’’ Mcintire said.

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is providing six steps to reduce this stress on caregivers. Experts say be adaptable and positive, deal with what you can control, set realistic goals, and go slow, mind your health, clear and refresh your mind, and lastly, share your feelings.

Reid Patrick and his wife owns Senior Helpers. He said the pandemic changed the way care is provided, but it didn’t change the need for hands-on care.

“Face shields, masks, and everything just to make sure they were fully protected,” Patrick said.

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America has a helpline available to help provide information and support regarding caregiver stress.

You can connect with a licensed social worker by calling 866-232-8484, web chatting at www.alzfdn.org