Tag: Caregivers in the Workforce

Best Caregiver-Friendly Practices Part I

Posted on by Luiza Benisano

Best Caregiver-Friendly Practices for Free Part I

Below is a list of the best caregiver-friendly practices other companies have used to support working caregivers. If you are an employer or a business owner, this is for you. By implementing a few simple practices in your work, you will be able to retain and provide support to your caregiver employees.

  1. Private Area for Phone Calls

If you have an open layout at your office, consider designating a private area for your employees to take phone calls. Caregiving tasks happen at any time of the day. Most of the appointments your caregiving employees must schedule can only be done during conventional business hours and a private phone area can allow your employees to make calls containing sensitive or confidential information.

 

  1. Flexible Scheduling

Offering schedule flexibility is invaluable. Allowing a caregiving employee to come to work an hour early so they can leave earlier to take a family member to the hospital can be very helpful. In what ways can your company offer flexible scheduling to be more accommodating?

 

  1. Affinity Groups

Affinity groups are gatherings for caregiving employees to share stories and advice. Affinity groups can be conducted informally by simply having caregiving employees meet without a specific format, but they can also be formally conducted by bringing in a healthcare expert to listen and share information. Many caregivers do not realize that others, even their coworkers, are in similar situations. Hosing affinity groups is an easy way for caregivers to share their knowledge and have their questions answered by coworkers. Affinity groups can be offered on a monthly basis, or whenever it is convenient for your company to host gathering for caregiver employees.

 

Remember, supporting caregivers is good business.  When you support caregivers in your workplace, your business will benefit too. If you or someone you know is new at caregiving, visit https://nevadacaregivers.org/where-to-start/getting-started/ or call the Community Foundation at 775-333-5499 for more information.

Preparing to Care for an Aging Parent

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

Preparing to care for an aging parent ahead of time is important for everyone to do.

The year I turned 42, my mother became depressed. She had to say goodbye to her beloved dog with whom she shared with my father.

The night Mom lost her companion, she felt truly alone and realized it was time for a change.

She decided to move to Reno to be closer to family. Eventually, we found a large home for an active family of three and her. Living with my mother was an adjustment I was not eager to make.

At that point in time of my life, if I had thought of mortality or aging at all, it was from a distance, like when my grandparents died or my father’s unexpected death from a brain aneurism. I assumed that my athletic, curious and adventuresome mom would die peacefully someday, but not in the immediate future.

Mom made good friends in Reno, adjusted to retirement and explored her artistic leanings, traveled and got another dog.

But she was different. We discovered later on that she had dementia.

During the 18 years that Mom had lived with us, her caregiving needs ranged from common needs that most people experience at every age, such as acute care after surgery, brief illness or injuries, and emotional support. However, the last 7 to 8 years became intense as her dementia manifested and progressed. Her all-encompassing care needs became the primary focus of my life.

Was I prepared for my caregiving role? No, and I didn’t accept it easily. I couldn’t talk or even think about what was in store for us. We did not discuss her advancing needs or our expectations earlier before she was diagnosed. When I felt the need to have the conversation with her years later, she was unable to think clearly and was driven by fear and confusion. We had missed an opportunity to help us both prepare for caregiving and receiving care ahead of time.

Now, am I wiser? Am I prepared to be a caregiver again or be cared for? I will need to lean on someone, and it will mean leaning hard one day. Who will that person be? My husband? Our children? Because of our family’s experience, these questions are less mysterious, less fraught with fear and denial, though still uncomfortable.

Discussing caregiving, caregivers’ expectations and accepting care is easier after realizing it is intrinsic to life as a human being. We are all connected species from birth.

If you are embarking on caregiving, or feel you need care, I suggest visiting the planning resources on the Nevada Caregivers site.

Additionally, connecting with caregiver support groups are also helpful and essential. Reach out and start conversations with people.

Remember, you are not alone.

Click here for more Alzheimer’s and dementia resources. You can also call the Community Foundation at 775-333-5499 for additional resources.

By Margaret Stewart 

How to Avoid Caregiver Guilt

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

The majority of the time, the caregiver will set high expectations for how they can help the care recipient. In reality, their goals are unrealistic, and as a result, this may lead to disappointment, frustration, and guilt. Making realistic goals is important. A caregiver should develop an action plan for making attainable goals, which should include a checklist with questions to ask. For instance, questions should include assessments like ‘is the goal realistic’ and ‘what is the intended outcome.’

By setting realistic goals, you will be kinder to yourself without the feelings of guilt. You will realize that you are not responsible for other people’s feelings, and you do not factor as much in someone’s life as your guilt would lead you to believe. Guilt makes you think you have more power than you do. You do not.

So how do you stop the guilt cycle? You eliminate one powerful word from your vocabulary: Should. Only you know the circumstances, the time constraints, the resources, and the relationships that impact you as a caregiver. Others may judge; but that’s not your issue. In order to overcome harmful caregiver guilt, lose the shoulds.

In a nutshell, caregiver guilt is a feeling of inadequacy. You feel like you are not doing as much as you should, and then judge yourself for apparent inadequacies. Caregiver guilt can manifest itself in the forms of exhaustion, pushing yourself too hard, negative self-talk, anxiety, and other negative emotions.

Five Ways to Deal with Caregiver Guilt

  • Accept and own. Most people are going to feel some guilt for being healthy when someone they love is sick;
  • Identify the why. Why are you feeling guilty?
  • Stop comparing. Connecting to other caregivers is important;
  • Take it easy on yourself. We can be our own worst critic;
  • Talk about it with others, especially family and make a plan.

It is often difficult for many caregivers to accept aid from others offering their assistance for many reasons. Some caregivers do not want to be a burden to others. Many caregivers are wary of outside help or have privacy issues. However, it is essential for caregivers to practice learning how to accept help from others. Accepting help does not mean the caregiver is weak or unable to handle their situation, they can delegate tasks and still be in charge. Having an extra pair of hands to help out gives the caregiver a chance to recharge and relax. When the caregiver receives help from others, stress levels will be decreased, and chances of burning out will be greatly reduced. It is important, therefore, for caregivers to take care of their own body and mind.

To help manage caregiver stress and guilt:

  • Plan and accept help. Be prepared with a list of ways that others can help you, and let the helper choose what he or she would like to do. For instance, a friend may offer to take the person you care for on a walk a couple of times a week. Or a friend or family member may be able to run an errand, pick up your groceries or cook for you.
  • Focus on what you are able to provide. It’s normal to feel guilty sometimes, but understand that no one is a “perfect” caregiver. Believe that you are doing the best you can and making the best decisions you can at any given time.
  • Set realistic goals. Break large tasks into smaller steps that you can do one at a time. Prioritize, make lists and establish a daily routine. Begin to say no to requests that are draining, such as hosting holiday meals.
  • Get connected. Find out about caregiving resources in your community. Many communities have classes specifically about the disease your loved one is facing. Caregiving services such as transportation, meal delivery or housekeeping may be available.
  • Join a support group. A support group can provide validation and encouragement, as well as problem-solving strategies for difficult situations. People in support groups understand what you may be going through. A support group can also be a good place to create meaningful friendships.
  • Seek social support. Make an effort to stay well-connected with family and friends who can offer nonjudgmental emotional support and help. Set aside time each week for connecting, even if it’s just a walk with a friend.
  • Set personal health goals. For example, set goals to establish a good sleep routine, find time to be physically active on most days of the week, eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water. Many caregivers have issues with sleeping. Not getting quality sleep over a long period of time can cause health issues. If you have trouble getting a good night’s sleep, talk to your doctor.

Above all – Take care of yourself

Click here for more information on support groups or call the Community Foundation at 775-333-5499.

By Lawrence J. Weiss

Paper Bags and Caregiving Isolation

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

There is a good reason why all caregivers need their paper bags… For caregivers, there is a different weight that comes with knowing you are responsible for another person’s health and wellbeing, which can result in feelings of stress and isolation.

It is important for caregivers to care for themselves to fulfill their caregiving responsibilities while being able to care for themselves also. Oftentimes, however, caregivers put themselves and their mental health in the back burner simply because there isn’t enough time around the clock. Feelings of isolation seep in.

Lily is 70 years old and works as a caregiver in California. She has been a caregiver since 2001 and has cared for a lot of people over the years. Caregiving has always been a fulfilling journey for her, but as of late, she has been feeling burnt out from caregiving due to feelings of isolation.

As soon as she gets home, she starts caring for her sister who recently got diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. Lily and her sister both live in Oxnard, California and have limited support system. Most of their family are either out of state, or live a few hours away, leaving Lily the primary caregiver for her sister.

Lily voiced out how she started to feel physically exhausted from having to work as a caregiver by profession and being the primary caregiver for her ailing sister. She expressed how isolating it felt.

Eventually, she got sick and was hospitalized for more than a week.

Another family caregiver, Laura, shared with me why family caregivers end up feeling isolated. Aside from lack of support, they refuse to seek help from other people because they feel like they would be the best at caring for a family member.

Laura became a caregiver for her niece who suffered a stroke. She shared she felt isolated because becoming a caregiver was overnight.

“I feel that the reason why caregivers are isolated are for various reasons. For one, they don’t want to ask for help because caregivers want to show they can do it on their own. Caregivers are afraid of getting judged when it comes to how they care for a family member,” Laura shares.

Laura advises caregivers to not be afraid of what people think and not to isolate themselves. Instead, to work on expanding a support system and to ask for support even if that means asking for help. Expanding your support system is key to avoiding caregiver isolation.

Her advice for people like Lily is to make things easier on her end when it comes to caregiving. For example, asking someone to cover for her an hour a week, or perhaps order food once a week to give herself some reprieve.

Laura also advises caregivers to try to do something fun each day, no matter how small it is.  

“Laugh, make phone calls to friends and family. And if you don’t get things right all the time, don’t beat yourselves up and don’t be afraid of getting judged. Ask and accept help even if that is through blogs, or a quick search on the Internet.”

Laura also stresses the importance of expanding your support system so that you can take turns with caring for your family member.

Laura shared that over the years, she would share a paper bag to fellow caregivers, the caregivers stress relief bag. The paper bag could contain anything that makes them smile and relax.

“I would give all caregivers a simple paper bag and ask them to put in the paper bag whatever helps them relax. I would then tell caregivers to keep their paper bags handy whenever they need time to themselves.” 

If you don’t have any family or friends close by, you can always attend support groups and meet other family caregivers for support. Perhaps share with them your paper bag.  

Click here for more information on:

Interview conducted by:
Luiza Benisano 

Special Thanks:
Lily Martinelli and Laura Coger

Caregiving: A life on hold?

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

Caregiving can be rewarding and challenging.

When an individual is diagnosed with a progressive neurological disease like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis, it’s staggering, not only for the patient, but also for their family and friends. Many do not know where to start or how to move forward. Caregivers need all the extra support they can get so they can provide better care.

Recognizing the impact these impossibly difficult diseases have on families and the community, the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las Vegas, NV provides no-cost educational and support programs nationwide. We believe education and awareness brings power and the ability to more readily cope. We involve the community to raise consciousness and enhance support for patients, as well as caregivers.

Most of the diseases we treat at our clinic have an eight to twenty-year trajectory. That is a long time to try and put a life on hold. We recommend patients and families stay as active as possible for as long as possible. As devastating as it can be to hear the diagnosis, it’s important to persevere and keep living to the best of one’s ability. Continue to do the things you’ve always loved individually and with your care recipient. Practice the principles of wellness at any age or state of the illness – eat a healthy diet, drink water, incorporate physical activity into your routine, visit with family and friends, minimize the risk of falls, implement a bedtime ritual to prepare for sleep, and finally, think about ways to reduce daily stress. 

After diagnosis, the first, best steps are to put one’s legal house and a financial plan in order. Consult with a lawyer. If you haven’t already, put advanced directives into place. These might include a living will, durable power of attorney for health care and financial matters, and Professional Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST). Next, learn as much about the disease you are confronting as possible. This will help you anticipate what is coming and develop a plan to pro-actively manage the obstacles ahead. Build a care team around you. Include medical professionals, physical, occupational and speech therapists, disease specific resource groups, family members, neighbors, friends, clergy and other people in your faith communities. When someone asks if they can help, let them. Have a list of things others can do to support day to day needs. If no one is asking, reach out and request help. If you are caregiving, it is vital that you are in tune with yourself. Listen to your body and your heart and make sure your needs are also being met.

Ongoing medical care is an important component of dealing with a chronic condition for the patient. However, caregivers must also be mindful to not neglect their own personal care. Make those annual check-up appointments. Follow through with recommended tests. Join a support group. Take a joy break. Sign up for respite. Get your hair done. Schedule a manicure/pedicure. Ultimately, love yourself so you can love another. Caregiving is a big responsibility. You want to make sure you are not neglecting yourself in the process.

Finally, learn about and take advantage of caregiver support services. Cleveland Clinic has several art, therapy, exercise, education and support programs available nationwide. All are free and open to the public. As is the case with most organizations, since COVID-19 reared its ugly head, our programs have migrated to virtual platforms. This has actually become beneficial as we are no longer bound by geography. We are able to provide services far and wide.

Our programs include a weekly lunch & learn livestream covering topics related to the diseases we treat, healthy aging, or community resources, featuring doctors, nurse practitioners, and therapists, as well as community leaders and other professionals. We provide three art programs. Mind in Design – an art making program where materials and supplies are sent to each household prior to meeting in a zoom room for an art making session; Conversations to Remember – an art discussion group where select art pieces drive the conversation relating back to each person’s individual story; and The Learning Arts – virtual tours to various museums, gardens, zoos and science centers across North America.

We have both an onsite library and e-library with extensive resources designed to support and inform patients and caregivers. Visit our e-library at www.keepmemoryalive.org. You will find selections under the caregiver resource tab. Email louruvolibrary@ccf.org to obtain a patron number.

Several evidenced-based caregiver support workshops are presented multiple times throughout the year. They include Powerful Tools for Caregivers, Improv for Care, Managing MS, and Dealing with Dementia.
These caregiving tools are helpful to have, especially for first-time caregivers.

Numerous support groups are available such as caring for a person with memory loss, Lewy Body Disease, FTD, PPA, Parkinson’s, PSP, Huntington’s, and multiple sclerosis.

Music Therapy is offered daily, and Rhythmic Reminiscence – a Music and Physical Therapy collaborative meets once a week, as does Yoga for Parkinson’s and Yoga for MS.

Options are numerous. We encourage you to try one or more. If you are interested in participating, or would like more specific information or to be added to our monthly newsletter, please call the education line 702.271.9563 or email louruvosocialserv@ccf.org

Caregiving and providing support to a loved one with a progressive neurological condition can be rewarding and challenging. To be successful, one must be prepared to learn new things, adapt to changes, plan for the short and long term and expect the unexpected. Trust yourself, believe in yourself and remind yourself every day that you are doing the best you can in the moment. When you feel like you’ve failed, forgive yourself and carry on. Remember to carve out time to pursue your own interests and passions. Hand the care baton to others on your care team as often as possible. And finally, let the language of love direct your thoughts, words and actions toward your care receiver, but mostly toward yourself.

Click here for more information on Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia, or call the Community Foundation at 775-333-5499.

By Verla Niebuhr

Caring for my Father in the time of a Pandemic

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

Caring for her father during a pandemic, Bonnie read shares her story and why it is important to check on your loved ones daily.

Bonnie shares how difficult it was for her to have her father living in an Independent Senior Living Community during a pandemic. She writes:

“Thinking of him having no communication except for television, watching way too much news and politics, which leaves him with anxious feelings about a future he can no longer participate in, was worrisome for me.”

To alleviate her dad from feeling isolated, Bonnie made it a routine every Saturday morning to drop off goodies such as cookies, applesauce, and more! She shares just how important it is to check up on loved ones living in a facility as much as you can:

“It is so very important to call daily and lift the spirits of those who can’t leave the room due to quarantine! Imagine having to eat every meal alone, set dishes outside the door, and seeing NO ONE. The old folks can’t afford depression, they will give up, and it’s not okay to go out in a bleak spirit. I do my best to stay positive and call often to check on my dad,” she said.

Since Bonnie wrote about her worries of her father going through isolation, her father, Royce Read, has since moved back home with her. She shares with Aging and Awesome the big relief and gratitude she feels now that she gets to take care of her father during this time, “We want to get him closer to me and out of isolation,” she said. 

She also credits the Caregiver Support Initiative for being her go-to resource for caregiving. “I appreciate the opportunity to work with everyone involved in the Caregiver Support Initiative steering committee. Instantly, I realized I did not know as much about navigating the system as I should. I learn something new from every dialogue. We are all caregivers at some point. Through the guidebook and website, assistance has been given to thousands; I am convinced of that.”

To view Bonnie and Royce Read’s full interview, click here.

For more caregiving resources, call the Community Foundation at 775-333-5499.

Tips for Hiring a Caregiver

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

Hiring a professional caregiver can stir up a lot of emotions. I have heard everything from relief and a breath of fresh air, to fear of someone in their house or families fighting over how money is spent. My goal in this blog is to help you understand where to look, what to do, and over all a basic understanding in hopes that it might help, enhance, and/or keep your family (and sanity) safe.

So where do you start to hire someone? Well, first we need to understand that not all caregivers are the same. Some work with people with cancer, some amputees, some Alzheimer’s, some do only house chores to free up your time.

First, everyone should understand the care that is needed and then reach out too non-profits who help with it. Second, if you are part of a support group, ask around for who works well in town. Third, here in Northern Nevada we are close to each other, so I encourage you ask you friends or professionals you already work with on ideas of what company to look at. I would caution about using craigslist or Facebook ads as they may not be as they seem or have false ratings. Sites like Medicare’s Home Health Compare is a good online tool to start with. The goal is to find someone who is compassionate and responsible.

Now that you have some ideas on where to look, I really want to focus on understanding your needs and resistances that come with someone in the house. The purpose of hiring professional help is to alleviate tasks that either take up too much time for you to do, too risky, or too difficult.  It is important to remember, their job may not be to provide care for the person you are caring for but provide care for you! For example: If pushing the lawnmower is bad for your back, hire someone to do it for you! If you are informed you need to administer a prescription in an exact way that it risks people’s health, hire someone! If you need to go to work or tend to other family needs and you need someone around the house to help with toiletries or cooking, hire someone. I say this because most people who are being cared for do not want someone other than family caring for them as they may feel embarrassed. But if you are hiring someone to help ‘you’ that changes the conversation.

Let us talk about the types of professional caregivers.

  1. Personal care aids (PCA) and Home health aides (HHA). These types of people generally do basic house care and help with ADL’s (Activity of daily living). Since often not medically licenses, also the most cost effective for out of pocket. Though, due to that same reason are not often covered by insurances. If you need help around the house, PCA and HHA are where most people go.
  2. Certified nursing assistants (CNA) They work under a RN (Registered nurse) and can do wound care as well as ADLs. More affordable than a RN but cannot provide direct medical care.
  3. Skilled Nursing Providers (LPN – licensed practical nurses.) These people can provide medical care as well as help with ADLs. I would not hire an LPN to do housework as you can hire more than one type of caregiver, but if your loved one needs medical aid at home, and not in need of a RN, a great way to go.
  4. Registered Nurse (RN) Hire an RN when you need medical advice and help with all medical equipment in the home. Most RNs work with your doctor to help the doctor understand the medical needs of you loved one and may help direct other caregivers in your home if needed or you live out of state.

The interview. You should never EVER be afraid of telling the person you are hiring what you are paying them for or what to expect. The last thing anyone wants is to walk into a situation where they are told something different. It creates confusion and mistrust. Honesty is the best policy. Say that you need dishes done daily, or they will have to talk to your spouse about a subject for hours on end while they are there. Keep the communication open and expect the same out of the person you hire. Be Direct, Be Honest, and Be Respectful.

Hiring a company vs an individual. Both have their pro’s and con’s depending on the needs of your family. This can be a whole topic itself; So, I will keep it simple:

Hiring a company:

Pros: Should always have a caregiver if your regular is out sick, they handle paperwork, usually better insurance, and screening.

Cons: more costly, often no part time schedules, and you may not be able to pick the caregiver.


Hiring an individual:

Pros: Often more cost effective, you get to know the caregiver personally and you agree on schedules. 

Cons: You have to handle the billing and paperwork, if they are out sick no one is there to care for your loved on.

            And lastly keeping you, your family and property safe. I always say that “life happens.” Things go wrong we can never expect. So, I want to address problems that happen that most people don’t think of. First, a caregiver will probably never do things the way you would do it. That is fine. It may not be wrong but may make some feel uncomfortable. Second, If the worry of what is going on at home is getting to you, you may want to install nanny cam’s in and around the house. This may work as a double benefit if your loved one is at risk for falling, and you can use the cameras to see if they “fall”.

            I knew one family member that stopped by the house at random times during the day to check up on things and it made the whole family feel better knowing that the hired professionals will be randomly checked. I would say 99% professionals are good, honest caring people. It is that 1% that give the industry a bad name. Third, if you worry about theft, simply pull out the old smart phone and make a recording of what is in the house. The professional may tidy things up and put them where they don’t normally belong. So, ask them where an item is before accusing of theft, as it may create tension. Be smart about it and play detective if you are sure its theft. If you hired a company, ask the boss what is going on after you know for sure the item/s were not just misplaced.

If you did your homework, understand your needs, and work with people you can trust, you should find hiring a professional caregiver, (or lawncare/maid to help) a wonderful experience. Most people are grateful on the amount of time and worry that is alleviated from having the extra help.

There are plenty of ways you can do your research on finding the right caregiver for you. AARP offers extensive advice on steps to finding the right home care worker that will suit your needs. Read more here.

Washoecaregivers.org has resources on in-home care. To learn more, click here.

By

William Palmer

Caregiving during COVID-19

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

The COVID-19 situation is an unprecedented time for everyone. People of all ages are at risk of contracting the Coronavirus, with seniors being the most vulnerable and at high risk, which can pose as a serious concern for family caregivers. Our current situation can also prove to be a stressful time for family caregivers in our community with having to plan ahead or be aware of the constant changes in information on resources. Here are some ways to help you and keep the person you are caring for safe.

Keep clean
The Coronavirus can be contracted by individuals by touching any surface that is contaminated, and then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. To avoid this, make sure you clean your hands after going out in public where you may have touched contaminated surfaces.

Be mindful of social distancing, and not isolation
One important way to keep your older family member safe is to avoid going out as much as possible, and to social distance if you are out and about. However, if your older family member is already feeling lonely and isolated, there may be activities you can do with them to avoid isolation. Going out for a quick walk, reading, gardening, and phone and video calls with their family members and friends are good ways to keep your older family member from feeling isolated.

Make Time for Self-Care
Author Eleanor Brownn, said, “Self-care is not selfish. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” Which rings true for caregivers. The stress surrounding COVID-19 can be overwhelming, do not let yourself get burdened. Make sure you take breaks and be mindful of your health too. Read more on why taking breaks are important by clicking here.

Keep up to date with resources for caregivers and seniors
Information and resources are rapidly changing due to the current situation of COVID-19. A lot of businesses may have also modified their services. Make sure to call any place of business first to confirm business and the services they currently offer. Click here for family caregiving resources.

The COVID-19 situation is an unprecedented time for all of us. Keep yourself and the older person you are taking care of safe. For the latest information on Northern Nevada and a list of resources available to help individuals during this time, click here.

Disclaimer: The contents of this blog does not intend to give any medical advice. Please refer to the CDC guidelines for any health-related advice.
Visit https://www.cdc.gov/ or https://www.washoecounty.us/
for more information.

Respite Care and its Barriers

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

Respite is defined as: for family care partners who provide ongoing care to someone with a chronic or disabling condition or for a family facing undue hardship or crisis. Respite means planned or emergency care provided to a child or adult with a special need in order to provide temporary relief to the family care partner of that child or adult.

Respite is a much deserved break for caregivers that sometimes they do not take. Starting a consistent regime of respite early on in the caregiving experience has many benefits to the care partner and the care recipient.  However, there are many reasons why the care partner does not want to consider respite.  Some reasons include:  the care partner doesn’t feel like they need a break; they feel guilty for even thinking about leaving their loved one in someone else’s care; they don’t trust that anyone else can provide the needed quality of care for their loved one; they think the care recipient will not be receptive to anyone else caring for them. 

These ideas are rarely the reality.  More logistical barriers to respite are:  confusing and restrictive eligibility criteria; affordability issues; limited provider or respite options; or care partners do not always identify as a ‘caregiver’ and they tend to not ask for help.  These logistical barriers are reality.  Many of our community partners are working diligently to reduce these logistical barriers.

Education about respite is crucial.  Reaching the family member caring for a loved one and helping them to identify as a ‘care partner’ is difficult.  When my Dad and I took care of my Mom, we didn’t identify as Caregivers or Care Partners.  We were husband/daughter taking care of wife/mother.  Self-identification as a care partner is the first step.  When a care partner self-identifies, then education about respite can begin.

Are you a care partner?  Here are a few statements to help self-identify.

  • I take time off from work or from my personal activities to accompany a friend or loved one to a doctor’s appointment.
  • I give up things I like to do so I can help a friend or loved one.
  • I assist a friend or loved one with grocery shopping and/or help with other errands.
  • I help a friend or loved one with finances.
  • I reduced my work hours, or took family leave; or limited my personal activities to help care for a loved one.

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, you are a care partner.  Please stay tuned to this blog to learn more about Respite.

For more information and/or current needs for respite, contact Marta Malone at marta@neighbornv.org or 775-237-8375 or visit Neighbornv.org

For more resources on respite care, please visit Washoecaregivers.org/resources or call the Community Foundation at 775-333-5499.

What is Palliative Care?

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

Palliative care has been defined as “interdisciplinary care that aims to relieve suffering and improve quality of life for patients with advanced illness and their families. It is offered simultaneously with all appropriate treatment. It aims to control pain, help facilitate communication among treating clinicians and the communication of clinicians with patients and families.

It relies on the skills of a team comprised from several disciplines, among which are social service, pastoral care, specially trained physicians and nurses and volunteers, to achieve its goal of the alleviation of suffering, and especially belongs in the plan of care for patients when the benefits of continued technological treatment outweigh the burdens of that treatment as appreciated by the patient and family.

Additional assistance may also include home nursing care, personal care, homemaking services and transportation to name a few.

Palliative care is often confused with hospice care, which are two different forms of care. While the goal of hospice care is to provide ease and comfort for someone on their final stages of life, palliative care provides patients ease from painful symptoms they may be facing due to their illness, no matter their diagnosis.

The services palliative care offers can help individuals who have cancer, stroke, heart disease, cystic fibrosis, among other types of serious illnesses. Palliative care also helps ease with the discomfort that comes with a serious illness, such as nausea, vomiting, anxiety, constipation, sleeping, breathing problems, and more.

For palliative care to work effectively, the patient and the caregiver must be in sync with one another. Studies show that major depression is a substantial risk for in-home caregivers to those with advanced chronic illness. There is a striking 60% increased risk of death among the 30% of caregivers who reported emotional stress.

While it is a great priority to find palliative services that best suit your loved one’s needs, it is also important to keep in mind the health of the caregiver.

The Washoe Caregivers Guidebook is an instructional manual for caregivers. It offers helpful advice such as self-care tips for the caregiver, and why it is important. The guidebooks also go a little further in-depth on the difference between palliative care and hospice care, which may be helpful for a first time family caregiver to know.

Along with the Washoe Caregivers Guidebooks is its accompanying website, WashoeCaregivers.org, which lists over 300 community resources, such as respite care services and palliative care services, and more.

For more information, please visit WashoeCaregivers.org and download a free copy of the guidebook here: https://washoecaregivers.org/guidebook/.

 

By

Dan Ahearn

Why Support Groups are Important

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

Support groups can be helpful if you are facing a major setback in life, or if you are grieving the loss of a loved one. It is important that you do not go through it alone.

Studies have shown the impact on caregivers can be detrimental when they are burnt out and could potentially be costly. There are plenty of stress factors that caregivers sometimes face such as burn out, financial hardship, and more.

It is important for caregivers to share their burdens and voice out their feelings to avoid burn out and the stress that comes with taking care of another individual. Joining groups that offer support is a form of respite care that caregivers should take advantage of.

“Belonging to a problem solving support group while caring for my mother who had dementia was a life saver. By the time I found the group, our family was in crisis.  The Caregiver Support Group was able to connect with expert help and advice from the group facilitators, learn from fellow caregivers ‘in the trenches’ and have an hour a week to relax and restore my sense of perspective.

Within the group I learned tested methods and techniques that help smooth my mother’s day and her care. I was able to communicate my needs to my family and employer – to everyone’s benefit. The Caregiver Support Group grew to be a valued care partner. In return, I was honored to offer my insights, experience, and empathy to other members.

I cannot recommend strongly enough that caregivers find a supportive group and that their employers give them the flexibility to make attendance a priority in their life. I think being a member in the Caregiver Support Group was the reason I could care for my mother for 7 years.

I am profoundly grateful to the Sanford Center for Aging and to the University of Nevada, Reno.  Caring for my mother, while challenging and sometimes heartbreaking, is one of the most cherished periods of my life. Having done so, with help from the caregiver support group, gives me and my family great satisfaction.” – Margaret Stewart, former family caregiver

Joining support groups can get you the help you need by making connections with people who can empathize and provide the healthy emotional support that you need. Support groups can be an opportunity for you to learn other people’s coping techniques, and a platform for you to share what you are going through.

Joining groups can also be very beneficial. Being a part of a group offers a safe sanctuary for you and others to help one another because of the commonality you already share.

According to an article, the benefits of joining a group include:

  • Feeling less lonely, isolated or judged
  • Reducing distress, depression, anxiety or fatigue
  • Talking openly and honestly about your feelings
  • Improving skills to cope with challenges
  • Staying motivated to manage chronic conditions or stick to treatment plans
  • Gaining a sense of empowerment, control or hope
  • Improving understanding of a disease and your own experience with it
  • Getting practical feedback about treatment options
  • Learning about health, economic or social resources

We understand the importance of support groups and highly encourage you to seek help when needed. There are many different forms of support groups such as general support groups, bereavement support groups, and more. Nevada Caregivers lists providers that offer support groups and bereavement support groups.

By Luiza Benisano

Sources:

One Simple Practice

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

One simple practice a friend shared with me has kept me from becoming overwhelmed.  It is simply, “Just focus on one thing.  One thing.”  When that feeling of overwhelm starts creeping into my consciousness, I literally say out loud, “One thing, Vic. Just one thing.”  Hearing that simple phrase re-centers my head and my next step lands more steadily. 

Caregiving is nothing but juggling bowling pins. I know that.  My desk occupies a list for the day, compiled from other lists that are compiled from a calendar that fills up with multiple, ongoing tasks for the days ahead.  To look at all of that can easily fake me out into feeling beaten before the day even begins.  However, if I say, “One thing, Vic. Just one thing,” I inevitably settle and breathe. This one simple practice helped me breathe and it also became my form of self care.

So how does this work when Alzheimer’s is nothing but unexpected, continual fires that ignite everywhere and need stamping out?  Obviously, I first put out the fire.  An example was shared in a recent blog where Mom forgot her house key.  I had to drop what I was doing and drive to her house to let her in.  This put all my other to-do’s aside, which of course, pissed me off.  I had to once again re-prioritize and move things to another time and day, which led to everything to backing up like an L.A. traffic jam.  And like any traffic jam, stress sits and idles.  Overwhelm starts to accelerate and before I know it, I’m doing the backstroke in a river of thick sludge.  Then Fear pulls up alongside me in its stupid dinghy, wearing a cap, whistle and megaphone, goading me to swim faster, faster, faster.  The pressure becomes so ridiculous I feel like if I don’t keep pace, the world will fall off its axis and all humanity will end forever. 

STOP.  “One thing, Vic. Just one thing.” 

What Is True For Me:   This principal cuts out the superfluous excess.  If I’m driving to the doctor’s office with Mom, that is my “one thing” for that moment.  Sitting in the waiting room is my “one thing” for that moment.  Making a phone call to the Insurance Company is my “one thing” for that moment.  Teaching my fitness class is my “one thing” for that moment. I practiced that until it became a natural thing to me. One simple practice was all it took to help me breathe.

Saying it aloud allows me and the Universe/God to hear those non-judgmental words.  They resonate and echo like a powerful declaration to support the intention and effort I do make.  Sometimes the result is as dramatic as the parting of the Red Sea.  Other times it is as subtle as just making it through one ore minute, hour, or day like any other ordinary person who is not a caregiver. Either way, I will have climbed the staircase, one step at a time, without losing my breath or losing my mind.  

For more tips on self-care, please visit washoecaregivers.org and download a copy of the Guidebook here.

For more simple practices, please visit:
https://www.forgive-and-forget.com/. 

Therapy Intervention is All About Relationships

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

Therapy is truly beneficial for your mental health. To ensure that you receive the most benefits out of a therapy session, you must consider the relationship you have with your therapist.

 It may be that your care partner will need physical, occupational or speech therapy as part of an intervention to improve and maintain the quality of life for the both of you. While you may only visit your physician occasionally, therapy sessions usually go for many visits over a period of time.

The start of a great relationship with your therapist and ongoing treatment throughout the program requires good communication.  To achieve greater results, here are 5 tips that will help to make this intervention a most effective experience for you and your care partner.

MAKE A LIST

Coming prepared is a great way to begin the process. So before you attend your first visit, make a list of relevant questions and concerns. Consider carrying a small notebook that contains questions/comments you may have. It can also be used to bring up changes as the program progresses.  It is so easy to get home and say, “I can’t believe I forgot to share that information!”

ASK QUESTIONS

There is no need to shy away from asking questions. Therapists appreciate questions as they know that a client-centered plan works best for everyone.  For example, “What activities should we be doing between clinic visits?” Again, write down those questions in your therapy notebook as you think of them (recording the answers is also a good idea).

BE HONEST

This isn’t the dentist’s office. You don’t have to bend the truth about your flossing routine and you don’t need to bend the truth about following through with the home program.  Share with your therapist if the program does not seem to be working as well as you had hoped or that your care partner was not as cooperative in following the recommendations. Hey, it happens.

BE A PARTNER

Successful therapy outcomes are based on a shared team approach.  During the initial evaluation the therapist will have asked you, “Why are you here? What do you want to achieve when the sessions are completed?” Successful outcomes are much more likely to occur when solutions are worked on together.

KEEP IT GOING

When the therapy sessions come to an end, the therapist will have provided a home program in order to maintain or continue to improve the activities specific to your lifestyle. “If you don’t use it, you lose it” are true words.  It may be that your therapist can recommend additional programs within the community your care partner can utilize.  And remember, if you see a decline, you can always give your therapist a call or talk to your physicians about a re-evaluation. 

For more tips on how to communicate with health professionals, please visit washoecaregivers.org. You can also download the Guidebook here.

Respite Care for Caregivers

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

The dictionary describes respite as, “A short period of rest or relief from something difficult.”

Being a caregiver for an adult, whether that adult is a parent, spouse, child, other family member or life partner, is one of the most difficult tasks that life hands to people. Caregiving is a 24-hour job, 7 days a week.  Taking care of yourself while being a caregiver is all important. A caregiver simply cannot work without rest or a time off to care for themselves and to do the things they need to attend to without interruption. 

At the end of my caregiving, I hired professional caregivers from 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. so that I could sleep through the night in another bedroom in the house.  They would wake me up when they ran into a problem.  My days were so intense that I needed that sleep. 

Many areas in Northern Nevada offer respite care for caregivers, giving them time to do the things they need to do for themselves. With that said, most respite care personnel do not offer nursing services. Check on the WashoeCaregivers.org website for “Resources for Family Caregivers to Seniors in Washoe County” for respite care information.  If the person you are caring for is on hospice, hospice offers respite care during the day, but not at night.  

Being able to go to your own medical or dental appointments is all important while caregiving, as is simply taking time out for yourself from caregiving chores.  Having a respite care person come in to sit with your loved one so that you can go shopping, have lunch with a friend, go to a concert, go for a walk or simply take a nap gives you time to breathe, and plan for the days and weeks ahead.  If personal care is needed, make certain that the respite care person can help the patient with personal care.

Some skilled facilities offer respite caregiving for days or even a whole week, so that families or individuals can take a well-deserved holiday.  This time also gives the person being cared for a change. Several skilled facilities are listed on the WashoeCaregivers.org website.  Call and ask if they will take people who need caregiving services for several days, then visit the facility to make certain that you are comfortable with the care and services they offer.  Many of the in-home-care services offer 24-hour care. It is expensive, but well worth the cost so that the caregiver can take time off. 

One family I know shares caregiving.  To keep their mom from being confused, the son and daughter each have a room with a bathroom in their home that is exactly alike, with everything the patient is familiar with in the same place.  They simply take their Mom for a drive or to a medical appointment when it is time to shift caregiving chores, then take her to the other house. The arrangement works very well for them and gives both families respite time for themselves.   

All too often, a caregiver will collapse under the stress of caregiving, and it is stressful, believe me. There are many services in Washoe County to make the caregiver’s life an easier one.

Respite care is whatever works for you so that you have time to maintain your friendships and social contacts during caregiving, so that your own lifestyle does not change.  This is all important. Your life does not end when caregiving ends.

 

 

By

Jean Myles      

Why Support Groups Are Essential For Caregivers

Posted on by catherine@meshcreative.com

Many people are born with an innate sense of selflessness; one that motivates people to go out of their way to help others before they help themselves. We all know someone like this; maybe it’s the neighbor who always shovels a pathway through the snow on your driveway the morning after a storm, that one friend that is really good at checking in and offering their time when you need it,

or even the cashier at the grocery store that will help you carry your groceries to your car, which isn’t in their job description. It seems that people who are helpers and always giving often neglect time for themselves, an integral part of reducing burnout and increasing quality of life.

The same holds true for the unsung heroes in every community in the world: caregivers. Most caregivers in the United States work either full or part time in addition to serving as a care partner for family or friends. Usually caught between multiple professional and personal obligations, caregivers are the perfect example of a population that regularly fail to take care of themselves.

Though there are many small changes a person can make to care for themselves while caregiving, seeking out support can be a small commitment that makes a large impact. Studies have shown that support groups for caregivers not only have a positive impact on their feelings towards being a caregiver, but also for the person they are caring for.

Support groups are not always facilitated in a circular-everyone-is-forced-to-talk structure. Many times, a support group can be meeting for coffee or attending presentations all while talking about the successes and challenges each caregiver has faced. It is merely a place where you are able to openly share your story and feelings with others who may be going through the exact same thing; a place for you to be heard. Anecdotally, there are many people who find joy in attending support groups, but there are also proven benefits to seeking support.

The Mayo Clinic says that support groups can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, reduce stress, fatigue and anxiety, and allow members to gain hope and feelings of empowerment. Additionally, the National Institutes of Health share that support groups for caregivers can actually delay nursing home placement—a win-win situation for care partners!

In Washoe County, it is easy to find a support group for your current caregiving situation. Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, various cancers, and grievance support groups are available to the community. Check out the list on Washoe Caregivers website to find the best group that works for you. For rural caregivers, there are still options to get connected through the resources in Washoe County, but online support groups are also available, offering flexible help when you need it most.  

Jumping into a new atmosphere is hard when someone is already feeling tired and isolated, especially if that has not been the norm for a long time. Taking time for one’s self is not selfish—it’s necessary! Consider checking out a support group and taking a fellow caregiver as a personal challenge for 2019, something that will surely help you to be the best version of yourself in the long run.

“Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean me first, it means me too.”
– L.R. Knost

By

Kelli Hirt