- Caring for a spouse with dementia is very hard.
- New research shows that relationships also matter for caregivers.
- The study looked at many spousal caregivers.
- Researchers measured stress and health in caregivers' bodies.
- Some caregivers felt distant or self-reliant in relationships.
- These caregivers had more depression and health problems.
- For distant caregivers, marriage satisfaction helped reduce some harm.
- Other caregivers felt anxious or preoccupied in relationships.
- For anxious caregivers, satisfaction often did not help.
Difficult words
- dementia — a brain illness that affects memory
- caregiver — a person who helps a sick personcaregivers, caregivers'
- spouse — a husband or wife in a marriage
- depression — a long time feeling of deep sadness
- satisfaction — a feeling of being pleased or happy
- anxious — worried or nervous about something
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever helped a sick family member?
- Do you feel close or distant with your partner?
- What helps you when you feel worried or sad?
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