Let's talk about the C-word: Caregiving. In this episode, we continue our monthly series, NEXT AGE, with stories of people who are caring for an older adult relative. 

If you’re thinking "who cares?" —  this might make you feel differently:

According to a report from the National Alliance for Caregiving, for every five people you know, at least one of them is caring for a family member and even more are caring for more than one relative. They are unpaid — often unseen and sacrificing well-being, finances and identity.

Caregiving is now a universal experience impacting every age, gender, socioeconomic and racial or ethnic group.

 In the words of the late former first lady Rosalyn Carter: 

“There are only four kinds of people in the world:
Those who have been caregivers.
Those who are currently caregivers.
Those who will be caregivers,
And those who will need a caregiver.”

 It can be a rewarding experience; but it can also be a physical, financial and emotional struggle.

This episode will share stories of local people caring for an older adult relative. We'll hear from aging advocates about services and support systems for family caregivers, learn about options for longterm care allowing people to age at home, and we'll find out the latest research on strategies for coping and finding well-being.

Our show is made possible by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee and our series on aging is made possible by a grant from The West End Home Foundation — enriching the lives of older adults though grantmaking, advocacy and community collaboration.

This episode was produced by LaTonya Turner.

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