Nearly 80% of family caregivers are finding the caregiving experience emotionally rewarding, despite initial negative perceptions of caregiving, according to a nationwide survey by Caring Today magazine.

Published in conjunction with National Family Caregivers Month this past November, the Caring Today survey shows that caregivers have distinctly more positive feelings after caring for a family member than they did as they were about to take on the responsibility. The number of caregivers finding the experience highly rewarding jumped by 50% following the caregiving experience.

The survey indicates that caregivers' concerns vary significantly before compared to after becoming a caregiver. Overall the differences are positive, with caregivers initially underestimating the degree of bonding with the care recipient; underestimating both how rewarding and enjoyable the caregiving experience can be, and over-anticipating the degree they would feel overwhelmed.

Preparation, according to the Caring Today survey, is a critical element in the satisfaction caregivers derive from their subsequent experience: Caregivers who were prepared for what to expect felt happy, honored and needed and were significantly less likely to experience negative emotions, such as panic and inadequacy.

For more information, visit caringtoday.com