Louis Burgio. Photo courtesy of the University of Michigan.

People who care for relatives and friends with Alzheimer’s disease feel less stressed if they take a comprehensive skills training program that includes a self-care component, according to a study from the University of Michigan School of Social Work.

“When caregivers receive knowledge and skill training including positive health and health behaviors, they are able to incorporate these practices into their daily routine,” said Burgio, a research professor at the college’s Institute of Gerontology and a co-author of the study.

“This not only improves their self-reported physical health, but also decreases their levels of depression and lessens the stress and burden associated with the caregiving role,” Burgio said.

To read the full HealthCanal.com article on the study click here.

To find out more about Alzheimer’s and how social workers help families grappling with the disease, visit the National Association of Social Worker’s “Help Starts Here” Alzheimers landing page by clicking here.