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If you are a Caregiver, you are one of the 1.8 million Caregivers in Alabama.
One in four Baby Boomers (ages 57-75) are caregivers, providing regular assistance to friends or family who have a disability or health problem. The burden of caring for a loved one can be time-consuming, expensive and can cause Caregivers to become depressed and feel guilty about their decisions.
“Caring for the Caregiver” is Relatively New
Until the late 70’s, Caregivers were an unseen, unheard and unrecognized part of the healthcare team. These families and friends were caring – primarily at home - for loved ones with cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, strokes and other age-related diseases. The first national caregiving organization was founded in 1977 – the National Caregiving Alliance – to raise awareness. This was followed by a 2016 reauthorization of the Older American Act of 1965 to assist Caregivers, the RAISE Family Caregivers Act of 2018 and the National Family Caregivers Support Act in 2000. Recently, the national CARES Act (Coronavirus legislation) also includes caregiving support provisions.
I Can’t Take Care of You, If I Don’t Take Care of Me
Both the Caregivers and the cared for can experience similar emotions. As days, weeks and months continue with mounting responsibilities, Caregivers can become overwhelmed physically, emotionally, spiritually and develop significant health problems. They worry their compassion is faltering (compassion fatigue) and experience guilt (Caregiver Guilt Syndrome) they are not doing enough for their loved one. Caregiver assessments reports that 20% of family caregivers suffer from depression, twice the rate of the general population. Meanwhile, those in their charge also can experience anxiety, frustration and depression.
Options for Caregivers and Their Charges
As many Caregivers need to work or be away from home for most of the day, AARP recommends adult daycare as a more affordable option (ranging from $50 - $70 per day) for Caregivers respite. When older loved ones are unable to structure one’s activities, feel isolated and lonely, have difficulty starting and focusing on activities and no longer seem safe on their own, adult daycare provides watchful care and socialization. An adult daycare is typically a non-residential facility that supports the health, nutritional, social and daily living needs of older adults.
Caregiver support is built into the program, with counselling and other support services. Caregivers are provided daily respite to continue to live their own lives, work and take care of other family members and obligations.
Other options for Caregiving respite include home health care, assisted living facilities and nursing homes. The best advice is to know your healthcare plan and options: Medicare now offers long-term home and community-based services, like adult day care, in-home personal care assistance, and respite care in certain conditions; Medicaid can pay 100% of nursing home care costs if you meet eligibility requirements; and private health insurance companies typically offer some respite care assistance. Local resources for Caregivers can be found on the Area Agency on Aging website listed under programs: Alabama Cares Caregiver Program.
Article courtesy of the Via Health, Fitness and Enrichment Center Community Outreach Division. The Via Center provides health, fitness and enrichment programs for older adults and Community Outreach services to Seniors and their families. For information on
the Via Center GrandFriends Adult Day Services program, contact 251.478.3311.
Seniors Helping Seniors In-Home Care Recognizes Alzheimers and Brain Awareness MonthSeniors Helping Seniors Southwestern PA in-home care underscores the importance of compassionate support for those living with Alzheimers and the families who care for them. PITTSBURGH, PA June marks Alzheimers and Brain Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the more than 7 million Americans currently living with Alzheimers or other forms of dementia a number projected to nearly double by 2050. In honor of this important month, Seniors Helping Seniors Southwestern PA in-home care is raising awareness about the role compassionate in-home care can play in improving the quality of life for those affected by the disease. According to the 2024 Alzheimers Disease Facts and Figures report, nearly 12 million Americans provide unpaid care for people with Alzheimers and other dementias. These caregivers often experience high levels of emotional, physical and financial stress. Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care offers relief through peer-based, non-medical services designed to help seniors remain safely and comfortably in their homes while easing the responsibilities placed on caregivers. Our mission is to provide support, dignity and companionship to seniors including those facing memory challenges, said C.J. Girod, President of Seniors Helping Seniors Southwestern PA. By matching seniors who need care with active, compassionate older adults, we create a connection that enhances quality of life for both the caregiver and the care recipient. Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care provides flexible support with tasks such as meal preparation, transportation, medication reminders, light housekeeping and, perhaps most importantly, companionship a service that can be especially meaningful for those navigating memory loss. With new treatments for Alzheimers emerging and awareness on the rise, we believe its vital to offer families the support they need to navigate this journey, said Namrata Yocom-Jan, president of Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care. We are proud to be part of the care solution, providing personalized, respectful services that promote dignity and connection. ABOUT SENIORS HELPING SENIORS: Seniors Helping Seniors franchise system was founded by husband-and-wife duo Kiran and Philip Yocom. Kiran, who grew up in India, later worked to advance humanitarian efforts alongside Mother Teresa. After moving to the U.S. in 1995 and marrying her husband Philip, the Yocoms felt called to provide loving care to seniors and to cultivate an exchange of gifts at every generational level. Together, the Yocoms founded Seniors Helping Seniors in-home services in 1998, opening the brand up to franchising in 2006. With a mission to be the most respected and rewarding home care provider in the U.S., Seniors Helping Seniors locations stand apart from competitors as the only company that prioritizes hiring active seniors to provide care services to their less-active counterparts. Seniors Helping Seniors service aligns caregivers and care recipients based on the abilities and needs of both by offering a wide range of care services. Seniors Helping Seniors network has grown to 400 territories nationwide and over 200 franchise partners in 37 states. For more information on Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care, visit https://seniorshelpingseniors.com/.
Dont Wait: Why End-of-Life Conversations Cant Be Put Off According to an article by Johns Hopkins Medicine, two-thirds of Americans dont have a living will or advance directive. Planning ahead can help reduce stress and uncertainty for both seniors and their loved ones. A lot of people dont know what an advance directive is, says Lectoria Byron, a social worker with our Mobile, Alabama program. So, its giving them that knowledgeinforming them of exactly what it is and how it can help them. That eases a lot of anxiety. We sat down with Lectoria and Registered Nurse & Case Manager Amanda Albright to find out why these decisions matter and how the PACE care model fosters them. What is an advance directive and why does it matter? An advance directive is a legal document that explains what kind of medical care you want if you cant speak for yourself. It usually has two main parts: A living will, which says what treatments you do or dont want.A durable power of attorney for healthcare, which names someone you trust to make medical choices for you. Imagine for yourself, Amanda says. Someone you love deeply is in crisis because somethings happened to youand they cant find your funeral plans, your bank statements, or your healthcare wishes. They wont have time to grieve because theyre forced to focus on the paperwork and decisions that could have already been made. How does PACE help with these difficult conversations? Both Lectoria and Amanda emphasized education and pre-planning as the biggest ways their team offers support. Lectoria and the other care team members talk about advance directives during check-ins that happen twice a year. We break it up into manageable steps so its not overwhelming, Lectoria says. In Alabama, we have a basic form that requires two signatures and two witnesses, and we help guide participants through it. If a participant requires legal guardianship or their request involves filing documentation in court, we help connect them with resources like free legal aid, Lectoria adds. She said the best way to approach the conversation is to keep it simple. When you dont work directly with death or dying, its hard to know how to begin, Lectoria explains. But it doesnt take special training. You start by asking: Do you know what an advance directive is? A living will? A power of attorney? Then we offer information and ask: What are your wishes? PACE also provides brochures and other educational materials to help participants review their options in their own time. Checking in every six months ensures these decisions remain a priority. What is the advantage of a participant having their PACE team facilitate the conversation? The PACE team consists of a primary care physician, skilled nurse, social worker, physical therapist, recreation therapist, occupational therapist, and a chaplain. Amanda explains, The team approach keeps any one staff member from carrying all the emotional weight. And the participant hears a consistent message from different perspectiveseach member offering their own short summary or advice. That consistency builds trust and understanding. It gives a lot of credibility, Amanda says. PACEs structure also allows for something rare in modern healthcare: time. Were not seeing 16 patients an hour, Amanda says. We have the privilege to slow down and help people understand. That makes all the difference. Planning ahead for your care isnt just about filling out formsits about showing love, respect, and helping everyone feel more at peace. At PACE, were here to support you and your family through every part of aging, even the tough conversations. To find out more about Mercy LIFE and their innovative care program for Seniors, contact them at 251-287-8427.
Caring for a loved one is one of the most compassionate things a person can dobut it can also be one of the most exhausting. For many caregivers, especially those supporting seniors, the physical, emotional, and mental toll can quietly build over time, leading to caregiver burnout. Understanding what caregiver burnout is, how to prevent it, and where to turn for help is essential for maintaining your own well-being and continuing to provide quality care.What Is Caregiver Burnout?Caregiver burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by the prolonged and overwhelming responsibilities of caregiving. It often occurs when caregivers dont get the help they need or try to do more than they are ablephysically or financially.Common signs include:Constant fatigue, even after restFeeling overwhelmed or hopelessIrritability or mood swingsWithdrawal from friends and familyChanges in sleep or appetiteGetting sick more frequentlyLeft unaddressed, caregiver burnout can not only harm the caregivers health, but also diminish the quality of care given to their loved one.Why Seniors and Their Families Should Be ConcernedMany caregivers are unpaid family members, often adult children or spouses, who juggle care responsibilities with full-time jobs, parenting, and personal commitments. The unique challenges of senior caregivingmanaging medications, mobility issues, memory decline, and medical appointmentscan compound stress.Seniors and their families must work together to recognize burnout risks and develop sustainable caregiving plans.How to Prevent Caregiver BurnoutPreventing caregiver burnout requires proactive steps that protect the caregivers health and promote balance in their daily routine. Heres how to stay ahead of it: Acknowledge Your Limits Recognize that you cannot do everything alone. Being honest about your limitations doesnt make you a bad caregiverit makes you a smart one. Delegate responsibilities and set boundaries that protect your own health. Take Breaks with Respite Care Respite care provides temporary relief for caregivers by arranging professional help or trusted support to step in. This might be a few hours a week or a short stay at a facility. Scheduling regular breakseven short onescan be immensely restorative. Stay Connected Dont isolate yourself. Stay in touch with friends and family or join a support group for caregivers. Talking to others who understand your situation can offer both emotional support and practical tips. Focus on Self-Care Make self-care a non-negotiable. Prioritize sleep, eat nourishing meals, get regular exercise, and make time for activities you enjoy. Even small changes can make a big impact on your energy and mood. Use Community Resources Tap into local organizations, non-profits, and healthcare providers offering caregiver resources. From meal deliveries to transportation services, these supports can ease your load and improve care for your loved one.Helpful Support ResourcesIf you're feeling overwhelmed, you're not aloneand help is available. These caregiver support resources can provide guidance, relief, and tools to manage burnout:Family Caregiver Alliance (caregiver.org): Offers support groups, tips, and legal resourcesEldercare Locator (eldercare.acl.gov): A public service that connects you with services in your areaArea Agencies on Aging (n4a.org): Offers caregiving programs, training, and respite careSeniors Blue Book: Use our free directory to find senior-focused services like home health agencies, elder law attorneys, transportation, and moreHow Seniors Blue Book Helps CaregiversAt Seniors Blue Book, we understand the critical role caregivers play in senior care. Thats why we provide a free, easy-to-use directory connecting caregivers and families with trusted local providers. Whether you're looking for in-home care, assisted living options, or wellness resources, we make it easier to find services that support both the senior and the caregiver.Our listings include detailed descriptions, contact information, and helpful articles designed to inform and empower family caregivers in making the best decisions.Final ThoughtsCaregiver burnout is realand its common. But with the right awareness, tools, and support, you can prevent it or recover from it. Recognizing the early signs, prioritizing self-care, and using available resources can make a world of difference for both you and your loved one.At Seniors Blue Book, were here to help. Our free listing service connects you with trusted senior care providers in your area and offers educational content to guide you through the caregiving journey. Dont wait until burnout sets intake steps now to protect your health and provide the best care possible.Ready to take the next step in your caregiving journey? Contact Seniors Blue Book today at hello@seniorsbluebook.com or call 800-201-9989 to learn more, get personalized guidance, and access a full care assessmentincluding easy-to-implement tips to make caregiving more manageable. Let us help you support your loved one while also caring for yourself.
Today's mature adults are living longer and focusing on meaningful, healthy and active lifestyles rich with recreation, socialization and continuing education. Via provides healthy living opportunities, activities and resources that encourage all adults in the Mobile Community to live life to the fullest.The Via Health, Fitness and Enrichment Center is located on the Arlene F. Mitchell Campus at 1717 Dauphin Street. The Via Center offers recreational programs, continuing education and training, and a premier gymnasium and fitness center.Via Services, located within the Center, provides adult day care, emergency food assistance, home care, transportation, information and referral, and outreach programs to local housing sites.Thank you for visiting our website. For more information, please call us at 251.478.3311, e-mail us at info@viamobile.org or stop by the Welcome Center desk for a tour of our facility.
Today's mature adults are living longer and focusing on meaningful, healthy and active lifestyles rich with recreation, socialization and continuing education. Via provides healthy living opportunities, activities and resources that encourage all adults in the Mobile Community to live life to the fullest.The Via Health, Fitness and Enrichment Center is located on the Arlene F. Mitchell Campus at 1717 Dauphin Street. The Via Center offers recreational programs, continuing education and training, and a premier gymnasium and fitness center.Via Services, located within the Center, provides adult day care, emergency food assistance, home care, transportation, information and referral, and outreach programs to local housing sites.Thank you for visiting our website. For more information, please call us at 251.478.3311, e-mail us at info@viamobile.org or stop by the Welcome Center desk for a tour of our facility.
Today's mature adults are living longer and focusing on meaningful, healthy and active lifestyles rich with recreation, socialization and continuing education. Via provides healthy living opportunities, activities and resources that encourage all adults in the Mobile Community to live life to the fullest.The Via Health, Fitness and Enrichment Center is located on the Arlene F. Mitchell Campus at 1717 Dauphin Street. The Via Center offers recreational programs, continuing education and training, and a premier gymnasium and fitness center.Via Services, located within the Center, provides adult day care, emergency food assistance, home care, transportation, information and referral, and outreach programs to local housing sites.Thank you for visiting our website. For more information, please call us at 251.478.3311, e-mail us at info@viamobile.org or stop by the Welcome Center desk for a tour of our facility.