Caring for the caregivers: a reflection on the challenges of caring for an older adult with dementia

As the population of older adults continues to grow, the prevalence of dementia is increasing dramatically. Caring for an older adult with dementia is associated with high levels of chronic stress that may negatively impact the health of the caregiver. Caregiver support often entails providing information, offering support groups, and connection to formal support such as respite care to alleviate the strain of caregiving. Deeper psychological distress involving grief and emotional experiences of guilt among caregivers may also be vitally important to assess and consider when providing support for caregivers.