Making Time for Your Health While Caring for Others

Crossroads Hospice is recognizing Women’s Health to raise awareness of preventable health problems and empower women to make their health a priority. According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, more than half of caregivers are female.  Many put the needs of their spouses, children, parents and other loved ones before their own – allowing health and wellness to take a backseat. From scheduling regular checkups to getting enough sleep, there are simple steps women can take to improve their health and lower risks of certain diseases.

How Many Women Are Caregivers? How Can Being a Caregiver Affect One’s Health?

The National Alliance for Caregiving reports that 66% of caregivers are female. One third of these women care for two or more people, and the average caregiver age is 48 years old. Studies also show that women take on the majority of hands-on caregiving tasks such as bathing and dressing.

According to the Department of Health, caregivers are more likely to experience depression and anxiety; are more likely to develop long-term medical problems such as heart disease or cancer; and have higher levels of stress hormones. In particular, female caregivers are less likely to get a mammogram, seek needed medical care or fill prescriptions due to the cost.

What Are the Top Three Threats to Women’s Health?

• No. 1: Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women and is responsible for one in every four female deaths.

• No. 2: Cancer

Behind heart disease, cancer is the second-leading cause of death among women. The top cancers that affect women include breast, lung, colorectal and uterine cancers.

• No. 3: Stroke

Stroke is the third leading cause of death of women in America. It’s also the leading cause of serious, long-term disability.

What Are the Top Ways Women Can Stay Healthy?

• Get regular check-ups and preventive screenings, such as mammograms.
• Be tobacco free and limit alcohol consumption.
• Maintain a healthy diet and active lifestyle.
• Be mindful of mental health, such sleep patterns and stress levels.

Where Can I Find Out More About Caregiving and Women’s Health?

• WomensHealth.gov
• CDC – Women’s Health
• Family Caregiver’s Alliance
• Caregiver Action Network