IDAHO NATIONAL TRANSPORTER Idaho
Transportation |
As the nation’s population continues to “gray,” with better health care options and longer life expectations, many younger individuals assume responsibility for the elderly care of parents, family members and friends. The demands can be both rewarding and very challenging; care giving is integrated with an already full schedule of careers, family and personal pursuits. Business Psychology Associates, which serves as the state’s employee assistance provider, offers suggestions about how to cope with the demands of caring for the elderly: “Many people today are caring for an elderly parent or friend,” according to BPA. “While a necessary and often rewarding job, it is difficult to take care of an aging relative in addition to of all your other responsibilities. Fortunately, there is a growing understanding among Americans of the time and effort involved in elder care.” Consider:
In addition, because of the restructuring of the health care system, elders are leaving hospitals sooner than they used to. Often they are not entirely well, and so the burden of additional nursing falls on the family. Understanding the demands that will be placed on you, and developing a plan to deal with them will make care giving much easier. Professional studies have shown that emotional strain or depression is a common occurrence among people caring for an aging relative at home. First,
it is always hard to see someone who once took care of you in needy
condition. Unlike childcare, there are few social networks for those who provide eldercare. And third, for many families it is a financial burden. However, there are ways to manage the stress you might feel… Published 7-6-07 |