What information do I need as a caregiver?

November is National Family Caregivers Month. Senior Living Expert Lori Williams and Megan Rowe of the Alzheimer’s Association discuss the impact on caregivers who are caring for loved ones with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease or other conditions. Plus, they share resources to help them along in what can often be a stressful journey.

Caregivers face an incredible amount of work, and nearly half are caring for an older adult. Despite that, 30 percent are over age 65 themselves and have their own health conditions to consider. On the other side, many caregivers (one-third) are daughters. They may be caring for children in addition to an older adult. Being part of the “sandwich generation” makes it all the more pivotal they take care of themselves too.

Income can also be an issue. Forty-one percent of caregivers have a household income of $50,000 or less and cannot afford long-term care. That’s why it’s important to find local services for caregivers, as some may provide respite vouchers or other benefits regardless of age.

Another important consideration is caring for your mental health. Create routines and ways to implement joy into your life, whether it’s journaling or scheduling a pedicure. Self-care isn’t selfish – it’s often needed for overall well-being. Don’t get overwhelmed at what-ifs; take everything one day at a time and redirect any spiraling into productive thinking or focusing on the present.

Work together as family to introduce new resources and find a support group. Caregivers often connect deeper with other caregivers than someone who hasn’t gone through this journey, and they find validation in their struggles. Whether it’s in person (like a church) or on Facebook, find something that works for you.

Most importantly, recognize you can’t do it alone. Ask for help when it’s needed. One person alone can’t tackle a disease. Tap in to your local resources, family, and other forms of support.

Topics discussed:

- Dementia / Alzheimer’s

- Chronic illness

- Caregivers

- Resources for caregivers

- Caregiver support groups

- Self-care tips

Takeaways from this episode:

- A family caregiver can be anyone who is the primary person to care for someone, whether they're in the home or in a care facility.

-The Alzheimer Association 2023 facts and figures report estimated $340 billion worth of care was provided by family members and other unpaid caregivers.

-  Two-thirds of caregivers are women, impacting them in the workforce and their ability to contribute financially to the home. One-third of caregivers are daughters.

- Area Agencies on Aging provide services for caregivers nationwide, and you don’t have to be 65 or older to qualify. (Qualifications vary by state.)

- Unfortunately, primary caregivers may pass before the person with chronic illness because of stress and not caring for themselves. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so be sure to stay on top of your own medical visits.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Alzheimer's Association:

alz.com

Area Agencies on Aging:

https://portal.ct.gov/AgingandDisability/Content-Pages/Topics-A-Z/Area-Agencies-on-Aging

155. Caregiver Burnout? These 6 Realistic Tips will help you support caregivers better

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/155-caregiver-burnout-these-6-realistic-tips-will-help/id1521037344?i=1000627192324

156. Need to hire a caregiver? Follow these tips!

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/1fcd1a05/156-need-to-hire-a-caregiver-follow-these-tips