One in two family caregivers of people with Parkinson’s are juggling their responsibilities with an estimated 37 hours a week of employment, a new report suggests.
The scale of the challenge faced on a daily basis by many family caregivers of people with Parkinson’s has been set out in a new report.
It highlights the intensive nature of their caregiving role and the obstacles and heightened responsibilities that define the Parkinson’s disease caregiver experience.
According to the study, 50 per cent of PD caregivers juggle employment while caregiving, working an average of 37 hours per week.
Around a third (35 per cent) say they need more resources to keep their loved on safe at home, while 43 per cent cite the need for tools to manage their own stress and health.
Nearly half (47 per cent) of people with Parkinson’s require memory-related support, adding to the complexity of care.
These caregivers also assist with an average of three activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing and dressing, compared to nearly two for non-PD caregivers.
The data was compiled by the US-based National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC), charity the Michael J.Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research and Arcadia University.
Jason Resendez, president and CEO of the NAC, said: “This new research coupled with powerful caregiver stories, shines a light on the important role that family caregivers play in supporting people living with Parkinson’s disease.
“Parkinson’s caregivers are navigating one of the most complex care journeys imaginable, often at a great personal cost, yet they do so without the support they need and the recognition they deserve.”
