Stressful Caregiving Can Increase Stroke Risk, Especially Among Men
Spouses who are under significant stress caring for an ailing partner face an increased risk for stroke, with that risk being especially elevated among African American men, according to results of a new study. The study linked a high degree of caregiver strain to an overall 13.62% estimated 10-year risk of stroke, but that risk was 26.9% among African American male caregivers. Although in general male caregivers in the study showed less strain than female caregivers, those who reported high stress levels probably do not tap into family or community services for help, said the study’s lead author, William E. Haley, PhD, from the School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa.
“Men who are caregivers tend not to provide care all on their own; they often hire people to help and rely on family assistance,” Dr. Haley said. “What we think is happening here is that this subgroup of highly strained African American men probably lack these supports from family and other services,” he added, and they would likely benefit from individual counseling.
Tags: Assessing Stroke Risk, Caregiving can be stressful in several ways. Having to care long term for a loved one can involve financial strain and social isolation. Watching a spouse suffer is also very stressful. As well, Especially Among Men, Men Less Strained, Preliminary Findings, said Dr. Haley., Stressful Caregiving Can Increase Stroke Risk, the demands of caregiving can reduce the opportunity to get regular exercise and proper rest, which can also affect health outcomes
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