Family Issues Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and Multiple Sclerosis are often diagnosed at mid-life and can cause a person to need long term care as can strokes or heart attacks. Many times these unexpected health problems can cause individuals to go through traumatic emotional experiences. Family Problems The role reversal that occurs when children begin to take care of their parents can be an unsettling experience for elderly parents because of their pride. Children can experience guilt, frustration, and anger when faced with the costs of long term care and some may not be able to afford the care that they feel their family member deserves and needs. The person in need of care can be reluctant to give up individual freedoms and allow themselves to be helped. These individuals are often in a state of denial about their physical or mental condition and can cause great stress to be placed on the people who are trying to provide care. Family disputes can arise as issues concerning who will pay for care and what type of care should be provided become tough decisions. Family Externalities Approximately 65 percent of the elderly individuals in America that receive long term care rely on their families to financially support their care. This can stretch thin many family’s budgets as well as cause family members to suffer professionally. 33 percent of women caregivers decreased their work hours as a result of the increased amount of time that was demanded of them in order to provide care for their elder family member. 29 percent of American women reported passing up promotions and 22 percent had to take leaves of absence when faced with these circumstances. Depression and feelings of isolation can develop because of the extra strain placed on the family. This has led to 25 percent of American women who are providing care for their unhealthy family member to incur health problems of their on as a result of their care giving activities. The extra financial strain that comes with providing long term care can also hinder the ability of care givers to save for their own retirement or pursue other financial ventures. |
