Connecting Caregivers 2-24

Welcome to the newest segment of the Aging Ahead Newsletter.  This section is all about Caregivers!  Our goal is to provide education, resources, and support for the many caregivers out there!  We see you; we care about you; and we’re here for you!  

There are only four kinds of people in this world: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers and those who will need caregivers. Caregiving is universal.   

There are only four kinds of people in this world: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers and those who will need caregivers. Caregiving is universal.   

   – Rosalynn Carter, Former First Lady of the United States 

Am I a Caregiver?

It is estimated that over 53 million Americans are providing care for an adult family member or friend, yet few of these identify themselves as caregivers. Johns Hopkins Medical encourages us to understand the importance of caregivers by thinking of health care as a three-legged stool. “Family caregivers serve as one leg of the stool; professional caregivers (doctors, nurses, etc.) act as another; and the care recipient is the third leg. Without all three legs, health care cannot be as effective as it needs to be.” 

If you’re still not sure, ask yourself if you provide someone help with:  

Transportation to medical appointments?

Purchasing or organizing medications?

Monitoring their medical condition?

Communicating with health care professionals?

Advocating on their behalf with providers or agencies?

Getting in and out of beds or chairs?

Getting dressed?

Bathing or showering?

Grocery or other shopping?

Housework?
Preparing Meals?

Managing finances?

Does it sound like you might be a caregiver?  Keep an eye on upcoming newsletters, our website and/or reach out to Aging Ahead at 636-207-0847 or info@agingahead.org to learn more about our Family Caregiving Support Program and other support for you.