Most of us believe that elderly spouses and adult daughters are the main caregivers. However, younger caregivers are becoming more prevalent. Approximately 1.4 million kids and teenagers between the ages of eight and 18 are thought to be family caregivers.

Statistics from the American association for youth caregiving

72% of young caregivers are taking care of a parent or grandparent who has a chronic illness or a condition like Alzheimer's, according to the American Association of Youth Caregiving.

Much Too Young, a forthcoming documentary, follows young individuals who are providing care for a loved one who has early-onset Alzheimer's disease.

As they put their young lives on hold to care for their loved ones, the movie will show their hardships and the anguish they feel. In certain instances, it even involves leaving high school. A study by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation found that 22% of high school dropouts attributed their inability to finish their education to caring

Ways to support a young caregiver

There are actions you may take to assist a younger Indiana caretaker who is struggling to balance the obligations of this duty. They consist of:

Investigate support options

A young caregiver might not be aware of the local aid options that are accessible to them. Try to gather information on their behalf, then compile a list of possibilities for them to think over. You can get assistance from the Indiana Agency on Aging in finding nearby options. These might include adult day programs, home care assistance, respite care in senior living facilities, or a volunteer from a nearby church or synagogue.

Keep in touch with the carer

Isolation is a major contributor to depression among caregivers of all ages, particularly those caring for Alzheimer's patients. Maintain communication with the young caregiver and offer a sympathetic ear to hear about their problems.

Online support groups

Connecting a young caregiver with others going through similar difficulties is another action you may take to support them. You might find online resources like the Family Caregiving Alliance, Caring.com, and the American Association of Caregiving Youth helpful.

We hope that this knowledge enables you to assist the younger caregiver you know! For more information, contact us at the Heritage Care Home