Caregivers are America’s modern day superheroes, just as Terry Fulmer describes in a recent NextAvenue.org article. While there are resources and support systems out there to help, they are not always easy to find or accessible to all. As Fulmer points out in her article, it often takes the help of a paid Aging Life Care Professional™ (also known as a geriatric care manager) to work out the right combination of services and support. So how can an Aging Life Care Manager™ be the Robin to your Batman?
Aging Life Care Managers™: Supporting Superhero Caregivers
At the recent Aging Life Care Association™ annual conference Terry Fulmer, PhD, RN, RAAN of the John A. Harford Foundation spoke to nearly 400 Aging Life Care Professionals about national trends in aging and the impacts on the population. As Dr. Fulmer discussed in her presentation and points out in “Superheroes of Caregiving Need Better Support”, there are more than 30 million family caregivers of older adults providing unpaid care worth $470 billion annually (AARP).
But Fulmer sees this increased need of family caregivers as part of a larger, positive picture. “Our aging population represents a powerful success story that has increased lifespans and enabled millions of people to live well into their 70s, 80s, 90s and beyond,” writes Fulmer.
Family caregivers, however, can’t bear the burden alone. “Caregiver superheroes deserve a super system that will allow them to focus on the vulnerable people they love, maintain their own health and take off the cape.”
While various support systems and resources are available, caregivers are often too entrenched in the day-to-day challenges to find the right mix of services for their loved one. Aging Life Care Professionals offer the support caregivers need to “take off the cape.”
Working with families, the expertise of Aging Life Care Professionals provides the answers at a time of uncertainty. Their guidance leads families to the actions and decisions that ensure quality care and an optimal life for those they love, thus reducing worry, stress and time off of work for family caregivers through:
- Assessment and monitoring
- Planning and problem-solving
- Education and advocacy
- Family caregiver coaching
If you know a superhero caregiver or if you are a superhero caregiver, you can find support from an Aging Life Care Professional. Visit the Aging Life Care Association’s Consumer Library for free resources to help you strengthen your network of support.
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect official positions of the Aging Life Care Association™ and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.
Source: ALCA Blog