As part of National Family Caregivers Month, Amy Goyer – AARP’s family, caregiving, and multigenerational issues expert – shared her top tips for caregivers on Today with Kathie Lee & Hoda as well as on the AARP’s Take Care Blog.
In the segment, Goyer offered immediate go-to resources and tips for those finding themselves suddenly in the position of a caregiving role. In addition to speaking with the hospital social worker or discharge planner, Goyer recommends contacting an Aging Life Care Professional ™ (also known as a geriatric care manager) to help you “navigate, coordinate, create and even implement a care plan.” Goyer’s other top sources for help include:
- contacting your local area agency of aging
- Aging Life Care Association™
- AARP Caregiving Resource Center
- Disease-specific organization’s websites or local office
- Juggling Life, Work and Caregiving – Goyer’s new book that includes a chapter on crisis management.
Once you have addressed the immediate crisis or needs, Goyer offers these steps for caregivers:
1. Build your caregiver team.
2. Connect with other caregivers.
3. Get organized.
4. Care for yourself, too.
To read more on Goyer’s tips and resources for caregivers, visit the AARP Take Care Blog. To view the segment, follow this link: http://www.today.com/video/resources-to-help-you-succeed-as-a-family-caregiver-557216835935.
Amy Goyer is AARP’s family, caregiving and multigenerational issues expert; she spends most of her time in Phoenix, where she is caring for her dad, who lives with her. She is the author of AARP’s Juggling Life, Work and Caregiving. Follow Amy on Twitter @amygoyer and on Facebook.
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