Baby Boomers who are caring for a loved one are putting their own health at risk from stress and exhaustion, according to a new study from Humana.
“People who ignore their personal well-being are often fine at first,” said Jean Bisio, president of Humana Cares, in a statement. “But over time the impact on one’s personal health can be seen in weight gain, fatigue, and stress-related illness.”
While the Baby Boomer caregivers acknowledge they feel appreciated for their efforts, they also noted the sacrifices of caring for their aging parents:
- 63 percent surveyed have devoted less time to hobbies and personal interests;
- 46 percent have given up social activities;
- 43 percent have skipped a vacation;
- 36 percent have dipped into personal savings.
The Great Recession has put an added burden on the caregivers, as Baby Boomers have had to make decisions about delaying retirement.
“We’ve known for some time that caregivers are at risk of neglecting their health as they care for others,” Bisio said. “What this survey revealed is that the tough economic times facing our country have added a particular strain and burden for caregivers.”
In particular, so-called "sandwich Boomers" -- those caring for both their own children and their parents -- are feeling the squeeze.
Humana Inc., which is headquartered in Louisville, Ky., is one of the nation’s largest publicly traded health and supplemental benefits companies.
The survey it commissioned polled 1,000 U.S. baby boomers – who range in age from 45 to 64 – to measure the considerable impact on them of caring for parents and other family members.
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