One in Five Americans are Caring for a Senior Loved One

Giving care to seniors requires many skills. As a profession, it is only for those who have a special place in their heart for seniors or the disabled,. It requires much compassion, patience and problem solving ability.

It is very difficult work. However, if it is NOT your chosen profession, but rather ‘a forced circumstance’ such  as  a biological family member who is not prepared for the role due to complicated family dynamics, it can be extremely stressful and unhealthful for the caregiver! 

Not all elderly are sweet little old ladies or gentlemen. 

Some adults  were abusive to their children or spouses.

They may have personality disorders, substance abuse or mental illnesses.  

As they age, caregivers are just as likely to develop chronic physical conditions and are at high risk for depression.

It is not that UNCOMMON for the person they abused to become the caregiver. 

With 15 million Americans caring for a person with Alzhiemer’s disease alone (in addition to other dementias), caregivers caring for their abusers or neglectful relatives is an extremely complex and intolerable situation. 

One research study of 1000 subjects determined 28% of the adult children had been abused or neglected by the parents

To delve into this little discussed topic, you will be treated to a great opportunity to listen here to a former podcast  on this topic I did as a radio host.  My guest -Pamela Kirkwood Atwood, a gerontologist from Connecticut , active with the Alzheimer’s Association, who has held many leadership positions throughout the State of Connecticut, currently at the  Marlborough Health & Rehabilitation Center. This show provides a wealth of information for everyone! 

In addition to trying to understand the complexities, dynamics, potential problems with such relationships, Pam related information about- 

• ‘It's okay to ….”/Tips for setting boundaries;

• Legal options and resources for care;

• Setting and achieving goals for caregiver wellness

  
  

Shattered Lives Radio Podcast

Link- (One Hour Podcast) Hosted by Donna R. Gore
https://www.blogtalkradio.com/insidelenz/2017/12/16/shattered-lives-pamela-atwood-on-caring-for-the-elderly?fbclid=IwY2xjawEu-J1leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHY2fX0CZoLlcoyXAc7PXGyFJBjyWX--l6Z_jbtN0oFYctuDacAvtVGx1xQ_aem_R2j4kQBDDwJOdM5I0QOGGQ

Other Guidelines for Caregivers  ( Source- Senior Helpers, Murrel’s Inlet , SC) 

As a family caregiver, you play a critical role in the wellbeing of your loved ones.

The importance of family caregiving can’t be underestimated.

• Over 53 million Americans are unpaid caregivers for a

family member or friend.

• On average, family caregivers spend over 24 hours per week providing care.

• Family caregivers provide over $500 billion in unpaid

care annually.

Family caregivers report a high degree of emotional and physical stress.

• 74% of caregivers work full time.

• 70% of family caregivers say that caregiving has interfered with their job

Caring for the Caregiver

With these statistics in mind, caregivers need to prioritize their own well being.

 Some tips and resources to help you care for yourself and your loved ones…

• Seek support from family and friends, or join a caregiver support group.

• Communicate with healthcare providers to ensure you have  the knowledge and resources needed to provide quality care. 

• Stay organized and keep track of appointments, medications,  and important documents.

• Practice self-care through exercise, healthy eating, and hobbies you enjoy.

• Look for community resources, such as meal delivery or  transportation services, to ease the burden of caregiving.

 • Consider hiring an outside provider to alleviate some of  the caregiving responsibilities.

With a significant burden on families, an increasing number of  seniors are turning to licensed care agencies for help. Home care  provides personalized care and support, such as…

Assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing,  dressing, and grooming.

Medication management and monitoring of vital signs.

  Companionship and emotional support to reduce isolation and anxiety.

 A Light at the End of the Tunnel ? 

As of September 2021- CREDIT FOR CARING ACT was introduced in Congress.

The Credit for Caring Act would help cover the average cost of  $7,200 that many families spend yearly on out-of-pocket caring costs. This includes services such as home care aides, adult day care, respite care, transportation, and other supports. Specifically, the bill would:

• Create up to a $5,000 nonrefundable tax credit adjusted to inflation for family caregivers; and

• Apply to incurred family caregiving expenses greater than $2,000.

As of January 2024-  The Credit for Caring Act was re-introduced in Congress, still awaiting passage.