In John Hopkins' latest release, "Seven Strategies to Help You Cope with the Demands of Caregiving", they say:
"The good news. Despite the challenges of caregiving, research finds that between one-third and one-half of caregivers are doing quite well emotionally. Many of them feel rewarded by the whole process. And many say they believe they're fulfilling an important familial duty and are happy to "give something back" to a loved one who provided for them."
That means that between two-thirds to one-half are not. Interesting that the emphasis is on the "good news."
I guess I am conflicted about caregiving. I am doing it because I love my husband and loved the life we built together. I also believe that for right now he's better being at home with me, but I realize that can change at any time.
I can't say that I find it particularly rewarding and although I took my vows "for better or for worse, in sickness and in health" I don't particularly think about that. I don't do it because I feel obligated by some vows or words, I just do it out of love. And for me, I find it difficult physically and emotionally most days, and view it as a thankless, but necessary job.
edited to add: it sounds like the caregivers they are referencing are not spouses but children, grandchildren or some other relative based on the comment that they are glad to "give something back to someone who provided for them". As we all know too well, it's very different when you're a spousal caregiver.
That's about how I felt, especially your last sentence, "difficult physically and emotionally." I did it because it was necessary - no one else was going to do it. He was a human being, who was vulnerable and needed my help.
It is "good news" in that so many people find it rewarding.
I would like to see a breakdown by various categories. Spouse/child/parent. Pair/Unpaid. Full time/part time. Ages. Number of years. Types of dementia. Gender.
I too am doing it because I love my husband and for now it is working to have him at home with the help I have from Hospice and 2 paid people who each come for 3 hours a week. My eldest daughter lives with us and is here to help in the evening. Yes, I married him "for better or for worse" and my goal is to have him die at home, but anything can happen so I never say never regarding placement.