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My uncle has been sick, and my aunt is very attentive; almost too much so. She will not ask any of us for help, and we worry about her own health. Am I wrong to worry about her?
Last Updated: January 22, 2008
It is natural to worry about your aunt. People who take care of a spouse are at greater risk for illness or death than other caregivers. Many husbands and wives do not ask for help until late in the caregiving journey. They may view taking care of an ill spouse as part of their marriage vows.
How a person views these new responsibilities may depend on the kind of relationship he or she had before. Your aunt seems very committed to continuing to care for your uncle, without outside help. Caregivers like your aunt often have high levels of stress and can develop physical or mental health problem. Your aunt may benefit from learning to let others lend a hand so she can stay healthy and continue taking care of her husband.
For more information, see: http://www.extension.org/pages/Caregiving_Is_Different_for_Everyone.
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