In the past two years the world has become a planet of caregivers. An aging population and a worldwide pandemic has ushered in a new class of medical care beyond doctors, nurses, and medical support teams. The caregiver position has arrived. 

According to Wikipedia, in 2012, 12% of the population was 65-plus. By 2040, 19% of the population will be 65-plus. Why? Because of declining fertility rates and rising life expectancy.  

The Insurance Journal, October 2020 declares, “the next big economic threat is an aging population.” The aged population is currently at its highest level in history.  The number of people over 60 has tripled since 1950. 

The caregiver position is now including spouses, children, and grandchildren. Along with this responsibility comes a need for spiritual and emotional support so the caregiver doesn’t fall prey to depression and their own physical and emotional sickness. Did you know that rough statistics show that 30% of caregivers die before those they are caring for?  In addition, an increase in auto immune disease and depression haunts an exceptionally large number of caregivers. 

The following insight by FCA, Family Caregiver Alliance, are indications of caregiver depression and should be a warning to all caregivers. “Unfortunately, feelings of depression are often seen as a sign of weakness rather than a sign that something is out of balance. Comments such as “snap out of it” or “it’s all in your head” are not helpful and reflect a belief that mental health concerns are not real. Ignoring or denying your feelings will not make them go away.”

“People experience depression in different ways; the type and degree of symptoms vary by individual and can change over time. The following symptoms, if experienced for more than two consecutive weeks, may indicate depression:

• A change in eating habits resulting in unwanted weight gain or loss

• A change in sleep patterns—too much sleep or not enough

• Feeling tired all the time

• A loss of interest in people and/or activities that once brought you pleasure

• Becoming easily agitated or angered

• Feeling that nothing you do is good enough

• Thoughts of death or suicide, or attempting suicide

• Ongoing physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain”

There is hope for the suffering caregiver. In addition to restructuring your life to include self-care, your spiritual life is paramount. Staying full of God’s word and having fellowship with a local congregation are the two most important things a caregiver can do. Using technology  to listen to podcasts and live streaming services will allow you to be with your loved one and be spiritually caring for yourself too. Remember, you are not the Savior, Jesus is!  

The following Bible verses are especially comforting for the caregiver. They are found on the Guidepost website in an article by Lori Hogan, cofounder of Home Instead Senior Care.

“If you feel overwhelmed: Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”— Matthew 11:28–30

“If you’re wondering what God’s plan is in all this: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” — Proverbs 3:5–6

“If you feel guilty about not doing enough: Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” — I Peter 5:7

“If frustration is getting the better of you: Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.… It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” — Colossians 3:23–24

“If you’re afraid of what tomorrow may bring: This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24

“If the person you’re caring for is difficult: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” —Galatians 5:22–23

“As your caregiving journey continues: The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” —Numbers 6:24–26

I hope this column has given encouragement and wisdom. Being a caregiver for someone you love is a generous and noble commitment. But remember you are important too! Make the changes you need to regain your health and peace of mind.