Caring for Caregivers: The Importance of Your Health

Caregiving for a loved one with dementia can be a challenging and stressful role that often falls on family members. In fact, according to the CDC, 80 percent of care for individuals with dementia is provided by loved ones in their own homes. The demands of caregiving can take a toll on the caregiver’s own health and well-being. Now, a new app called Brain CareNotes is aiming to provide caregivers with the tools they need to support their loved ones while also taking care of themselves.

Dennis and Sheila Huntington have been married for 53 years. Dennis, a retired minister, became a caregiver for his wife when she was diagnosed with dementia. Recognizing the importance of self-care for caregivers, a team of researchers led by Richard Holden, PhD, at Regenstrief Institute developed the Brain CareNotes app. Caregivers can fill out a clinical evaluation, receive personalized care notes, and work with a care coach to manage their stress levels and overall well-being.

The app focuses on helping caregivers prioritize their own mental and physical health, encouraging them to take breaks and engage in activities they enjoy. By taking care of themselves, caregivers are better equipped to provide quality care to their loved ones. Dennis, for example, spends time woodworking and connecting with other caregivers for support.

While the Brain CareNotes app is currently being used in research studies, the team is working to expand its features and make it available to the general public. They hope that health insurance companies will eventually cover the cost of the app to support caregivers in their vital role.