Poll Finds it's More Stressful to Care for Ailing Spouse than Parents

Marriage is no easy task, and living out the "in sickness and in health" portion of the vow can prove particularly difficult for some couples.

A recent poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC center for Public Affairs Research shows that caring for a sickly spouse can create more stress than taking care of aging parents or in-laws.

The findings showed that most Americans 40 and up are expecting their families to care for them as they age, as half have already played the role of caregiver to relatives or family and friends, according to the poll.

Over 40 percent of Americans also say they've provided long-term care for a sick mother, according to TIME. On the other hand, 17 percent said they've cared for an ailing father. Overall, 83 percent of caregivers said providing long-term care has been a rewarding experiencing, with 8 out of 10 individuals noting a strengthened relationship with the recipient.

Taking care of a spouse can be a bit more complicated, with over 60 percent of those who cared for one noting added stress compared to 55 percent for other relatives. Another 50 percent also said that it's been a drain on personal finances.

"Your relationship changes. Life as you know it becomes different," said Raymond Collins, 62, of Houston, who retired early in part to spend time with his wife, Karen, according to Fox News. His wife was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis around 15 years ago, and lost control of her mobility.

"The traditional vows are through sickness and health, for richer or poorer, for better or worse, etc.," he added, via the news organization. "At the age of 25 and 32, you say those things and you're high on love and healthy, and life is all in front of you. The meanings of those words are pretty much lost, even when you concentrate on them."

However, he said it has also strengthened their commitment over time.

The survey was conducted by telephone March 13 to April 23, including a random national sample of 1,419 adults age 40 and older.