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Caregiver Health: Health of Caregivers of Alzheimer’s and Other Dementia Patients

  • Geriatric Disorders (H Lavretsky, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia and is a significant public health problem that will intensify as the population ages. The behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) present a significant burden to patients, their families, and their caregivers. The majority of care is provided at home by family caregivers. Caring for a person with AD and other dementias is associated with significant risk to the caregiver’s health and well-being. Healthcare providers must recognize that family caregivers often present as secondary patients. Given the importance of these caregivers to patients with AD and other dementias, it is vital to understand the risk factors that impact caregiver health and well-being. Non-pharmacological interventions can reduce the negative impact of caregiver burden on caregiver health, reduce premature institutionalization of patients, and improve quality of life for patients, their families, and their caregivers. This article summarizes recent relevant research concerning AD and dementia caregiver health and psychosocial interventions.

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Conflict of Interest

Todd J. Richardson declares that he has no conflict of interest.

Soo J. Lee declares that he has no conflict of interest.

Marla Berg-Weger declares that she has no conflict of interest.

George T. Grossberg declares that he has no conflict of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, 3550 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO, 63103, USA

    Todd J. Richardson

  2. Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 1438 S. Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO, 63104, USA

    Soo J. Lee

  3. School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, 3550 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO, 63103, USA

    Marla Berg-Weger

  4. Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 1438 S. Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO, 63104, USA

    George T. Grossberg

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  1. Todd J. Richardson
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  2. Soo J. Lee
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Correspondence to Todd J. Richardson.

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This article is part of Topical Collection on Geriatric Disorders

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Richardson, T.J., Lee, S.J., Berg-Weger, M. et al. Caregiver Health: Health of Caregivers of Alzheimer’s and Other Dementia Patients. Curr Psychiatry Rep 15, 367 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-013-0367-2

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