Take Care to Give Care
November is National Family Caregivers Month
Caregiving for an aging family member is no small feat. It's a herculean role – often without the hoopla of gratitude, recognition and rewards. Anyone in a perpetual caregiving role knows the toll it can take – the physical, emotional, and often financial strain it can create. And yet not doing it… not providing the best you can for a loved one is unthinkable.
If this is you – one of many vertebrae in the invisible backbone of the health care system, here are a few things you need to know. First and foremost, you are a hero. Perhaps an underappreciated, underpaid, unsung hero – but nonetheless – a hero! Second, you are not alone. According to a 2013 Statistics Canada study, more than 28 per cent of Canadians are in caregiving roles and this number continues to grow exponentially as our population ages. Third, you need to look after yourself first.
Ensure that you secure your own oxygen mask before assisting others. It's that simple – take care of yourself first; take care of your loved ones second.
Respite care can allow a caregiver a much needed break.
In order to maintain the healthy relationship between the caregiver and senior, caregivers often use the time that respite care gives them to take a “caregiver vacation”. Perhaps there is a long-awaited vacation or a planned surgery and their loved one cannot be left on their own during this time. Respite care can provide short-term, temporary care to someone who needs assistance. These stays range from a day, weeks to a couple of months, depending on your specific needs.
Caregivers can have peace of mind that in their absence their loved ones are receiving the care they need. Meanwhile their loved ones will enjoy the socialization and recreation respite stays can provide.
A caregiver (spouse or family member) who provides daily care to a senior can receive up to 4 weeks of funding for respite care through the Alberta Government's Special Needs Assistance (SNA) program. The respite care must be provided in a care centre and a doctor's note and a receipt is required.
If you would like more information about the SNA Program contact us at AgeCare Columbia to at (403) 320-9363 or columbia@agecare.ca. We can send you the SNA program booklet along with information about our respite program.
403) 320-9363. www.agecare.ca/LethbridgeLiving
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