AMA releases new physician guide on caring for the caregiver

CHICAGO — Every day in their treatment rooms, physicians encounter individuals who are making profound sacrifices to help a loved one who is seriously ill, often at the expense of their own well-being. To help physicians understand the day-to-day challenges and risk of burnout faced by informal caregivers, the American Medical Association (AMA) has published Caring for the Caregiver: A Guide for Physicians.

As more people live longer and become sick, frail or disabled from chronic diseases, their care is often shouldered by relatives, partners, friends and neighbors. Caring for a loved one can be meaningful and rewarding, but this immense responsibility can take a toll. Caregiver burnout occurs when individuals feel overwhelmed and alone, physically exhausted and emotionally fatigued.