Being a family caregiver is a task involving great love, but also considerable strain. Millions of people in Italy care daily for an older, ill or disabled family member, often without specific training and with insufficient institutional support.
Caregiver burden: physical and emotional
“Caregiver burden” is a clinical term describing the combined physical, psychological, social and economic consequences of the caring role. Chronic fatigue, social isolation, anxiety, depression and guilt are among the most common manifestations. Recognising them is the first step towards taking action.
Coping and wellbeing strategies
Some strategies shown to be effective include delegating part of the care to qualified professionals, maintaining a personal life, attending caregiver support groups, asking family and social networks for help, and not feeling ashamed to acknowledge difficulties. Caring for those who care is an investment in the quality of care.
When to seek professional support
Turning to a professional care agency does not mean abandoning your loved one: it means complementing your care with specialist skills. Support from qualified professionals reduces caregiver burden and improves the overall quality of care.
📚 Scientific evidence
- Zarit S.H. et al. (1980). Relatives of the impaired elderly: correlates of feelings of burden. Gerontologist, 20(6):649-55.
- Schulz R., Sherwood P.R. (2008). Physical and mental health effects of family caregiving. Am J Nurs, 108(9 Suppl):23-7.
- ISTAT (2023). I caregiver informali in Italia. Statistiche report. Roma.
