How Family Caregivers Truly Make a Difference
The National Alliance for Caregiving shares that approximately 53 million Americans provide unpaid care. Nearly one in five provides care to an adult with health or functional needs. Twenty-six percent are caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Family caregivers are extraordinary and wear many hats. They are housekeepers, chefs, chauffeurs, administrators, financial planners, personal shoppers, counselors, crafters, and entertainers. Unfortunately, they often prioritize the health and needs of their beloved family member, often to the detriment of their well-being.
November is National Family Caregivers Month. Visiting Angels Jenkintown recognizes the tremendous value family caregivers add to the life of family caregivers. Without you, many older adults would struggle. Here are three monumental ways family caregivers make a difference and local resources to help them.
Family Caregivers Prevent Loneliness and Depression
Seniors have an increased risk for loneliness, depression, and isolation. In addition, chronic illness, cognitive decline, limited mobility, and the loss of family and friends further increase an older adult’s risk for social isolation and loneliness. Family caregivers offer companionship and provide that social component all seniors need to thrive. We applaud the big and small ways family caregivers show up for their elderly family members, engaging them in conversation and ensuring they stay connected with the world.
Family Caregivers Preserve Pride and Dignity
Assisting someone with their personal care is a humbling task for both the care recipient and the family caregiver. It takes courage, empathy, and sensitivity. Assisting with personal care is also physically demanding. Without the assistance of a family caregiver, a senior can struggle to maintain their appearance. This can harm their pride and dignity, especially if they always strive to look their best. We applaud family caregivers' efforts to help their aging loved ones look and feel their best.
Family Caregivers are Strong Advocates
Lastly, family caregivers are strong advocates for their aging loved ones. They schedule doctor appointments, escort their loved ones to the appointment, and advocate on their behalf. They schedule follow-up labs and make calls to specialists. They navigate health insurance and manage medications. They notice when their loved one seems weak or ill. We applaud the way family caregivers make a difference through advocacy.
Local Resources for Family Caregivers
Being a family caregiver is a great reward, yet it’s not without a few challenges. Here are just a few of the local resources available in the Jenkintown area:
- Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter: Find local support groups and programs specifically for seniors living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.
- Jenkintown Elder Law Legal Aid & Pro-Bono Services: Local legal services that assist with estate planning, wills, and other legal counsel.
- Home Care Resources: This website provides a wealth of information regarding the cost of home care versus facility care, how to know when it’s time for home care, and other frequently asked questions families have regarding home care.
- Jenkintown MS Connections Group & Elkins Park MS Connections Group: Two self-help groups for persons with MS and their families.
- Redeemer Health: Offers education and support for individuals and their families walking through cancer in the community.
Visiting Angels Jenkintown appreciates the many ways family caregivers are making a difference in the lives of their aging loved ones. We are here to support you in your role as a family caregiver. We provide high-quality, compassionate senior care right in the home of your aging loved one. Our professional caregivers can help your loved one with any number of daily tasks. We offer assistance from a few hours weekly to around-the-clock monitoring and care. We give families peace of mind while providing respite for family caregivers. Let us walk this caregiving journey with you and take some burdens off your shoulders. To learn more, don't hesitate to contact us today by calling 817-877-1616.