Host Mike Sacopulos interviews Jennifer O’Brien, a healthcare expert and author, to discuss her book, Care Boss: Leadership Strategies and Resources for Family Caregivers. They delve into the growing demographic of family caregivers, address the challenges they face, and the perspective of caregiving as a leadership role. Don’t miss this insightful discussion where Jennifer shares actionable advice, strategies, and resources to help caregivers manage their responsibilities effectively.

Episode Highlights

- Growing Demographics: Discover the rise in family caregivers in the United States, with 53 million Americans currently serving in this role and the expectation of continued growth because of an aging population.

- Caregiving as Leadership: Recognize caregiving as a leadership role that can provide clarity and direction in managing care responsibilities and apply leadership strategies to effectively handle the emotional and logistical challenges associated with caregiving.

- Early Preparation: Learn the importance of planning and preparing for caregiving duties before illness strikes, and explore the benefits of early considerations, such as home modifications and end-of-life conversations.

- Support Systems: Identify and use available support systems, including professional caregivers, to enhance caregiving effectiveness, engage family and friends in specific caregiving tasks to distribute responsibilities and lighten the caregiver's load, and understand the role of healthcare professionals in involving and supporting family caregivers as vital members of the care team.

- Emotional Resilience: Acknowledge the isolation and emotional strain that caregivers often experience and use leadership tools to manage stress and maintain perspective.

Resource

- Book by Jennifer O’Brien: Care Boss: Leadership Strategies & Resources for Family Caregivers offers practical tools, from creating a go-bag to comprehensive medical records and is an essential resource for caregivers, providing both strategic guidance and heartfelt support.

Learn more about the American Association for Physician Leadership at www.physicianleaders.org