Caregiver stress linked to cardiovascular risks and increased burden

Recent research involving nearly 800 caregivers with existing cardiovascular conditions highlights a significant link between caregiving burden and physical and psychological health. The study, coordinated by Kyeung Mi Oh, indicates that sleep disturbances, physical fatigue, reduced leg strength, and negative emotions are closely associated with the perceived burden of care.

Among the participants, over 90% had hypertension, heart disease, or a history of myocardial infarction, with women making up approximately 60% of the group. Chronic stress from prolonged caregiving can lead to increased blood pressure, heart rate alterations, and poorer management of existing cardiovascular risk factors. Furthermore, interrupted sleep reduces the body's ability to recover and can exacerbate blood pressure control issues in vulnerable individuals.

In Calabria, Italy, the demand for home-based care for the elderly has increased by 108% over three years, reaching 44,506 people. However, the region provides integrated home care (ADI) to only 1.7% of those over 65, significantly below the national average of 3.89%. A shortage of nursing staff and structural deficiencies in residential care facilities contribute to a growing reliance on family members for assistance.