[Physical and psychological stress in a group of Italian caregivers: a new medical emergency? A pilot study].
this study aimed to evaluate physical and psychological stress in a group of italian caregivers. 20 subjects were enrolled in the study and divided into 2 groups: 10 healthy controls and 10 caregivers. Every subject underwent an cognitive, clinical and instrumental assessment. the statistical analysis showed an increased presence of pathological alterations in caregivers group such as decreased ejection fraction, cognitive impairment and depressed mood. the study shows the figure of a elderly caregiver, predominantly women, who spend many hours in patient care. The caregiver-type takes about four drugs a day and is not involved in screening programs offered by the health service for his age group. Results a high risk of social isolation, emotional fragility and an increased risk of cardiovascular events and cognitive impairment.