November 3, 2015
Caring for the Caregiver
By Peggy Dykes
Community Relations Director
Milestone’ Area Agency on Aging
Annually November is noted as National Family Caregiver Month. We recognize and celebrate individuals who care for family members, friends, or other relatives by helping them maintain their independence and quality of life. Many people do not think of themselves as a “caregiver,” but helping with rides to the doctor, shopping, preparing meals, bill paying, bathing, grooming, dressing, housekeeping, walking or transferring to a wheelchair, managing medications or arranging services are all examples of the tasks that family caregivers assist with on a daily basis.
Caregivers play various roles, often looking after multiple generations at a time. This can be especially difficult when caregivers are coping with disabilities and other obstacles to healthcare. Long term care in Iowa is expensive, costing families anywhere from $15,000-$67,000 each year (depending on level of care and income restrictions). Caregivers help keep healthcare costs down and provide personal care that many facilities cannot. It is important to utilize community resources like those found at Milestones Area Agency on Aging and other Aging and Disability Resource Centers throughout Iowa. Similar services are offered in Illinois through Western Illinois Area Agency on Aging.
Caregiver support programs provide resources and information for caregivers in many different situations. Some caregivers need assistance finding transportation, gaining access to services, or receiving respite care and supplemental services, while others require help making decisions about long-term care services. Milestones experienced family caregiver support staff members are there to listen and understand each person’s unique situation.
Special education events are planned for caregivers in October and November. Milestones Area Agency on Aging, Western Illinois Area Agency on Aging, Alternatives, and the Alzheimer’s Association will be sponsoring free informational sessions for caregivers in both Iowa and Illinois starting on October 29. Each week, for four weeks experienced speakers will provide information on understanding veteran’s benefits, legal/financial matters, helpful community resources and caring for people with dementia during the holidays. Go to www.milestonesaaa.org or call Milestones at 1-855-410-6222 for all the details.
Peggy Dykes is Community Relations Director at Milestones Area Agncy on Aging. She can be reached at (563) 324-9085, ext. 212 or at pdykes@milestones aaa.org.
