Hope For Caregivers

Author

Pikes Peak Area Agency On Aging (PPAAA)

Posted on

Oct 13, 2015

Book/Edition

Colorado - Colorado Springs

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Today's family caregiving looks different from that of our great grandparents or great, great grandparents. Today's caregivers are facing a perfect storm of challenges that make caregiving more stressful than ever before. Modern medicine has extended the aging process. While this means we are living longer, it means the need for care is longer too. On average, family caregivers are caring for their loved ones 4.5 years. That length of time doubles if they are caring for a family member suffering from dementia. Research has shown that the longer a caregiver has been providing care, the more likely she or he is to report their own declining health.

This added caregiving time also means greater financial strain. Those receiving care are dipping into their life savings to pay medical co-pays for expensive medical treatments. As a result, many do not have the money to pay for basic services that would make it possible for them to live at home. 25% of caregivers report it is difficult to get affordable services in the community to help them with their caregiving.

Because the care commitment is exponentially longer now than generations ago, caregivers are under extreme emotional distress. 40 to 70% of caregivers have clinically significant symptoms of depression. Many reports strong feelings of frustration, anger, guilt and helplessness in their role as a caregiver.

Even with all of these challenges, there is hope and support. The Family Caregiver Support Center at the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments Area Agency on Aging (PPACG AAA) helps family caregivers. The center provides free consultations for caregivers, to help them identify needed resources, how to access these resources and then make a plan for continued caregiving. The Center provides free respite vouchers to give the caregiver a much-needed break from the strains of caregiving. And the Center provides classes and support groups through community partners to help caregivers understand the unique challenges of today's caregiving.

For more information about the Center and its services, please call Kent Mathews MSW at 719-886-7526 to set up a free consultation about your unique caregiving needs.

Editor's Note: This article was submitted by Kent Mathews MSW. He may be reached at 719-886-7526

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Medicare & Medicaid Information 14 S Chestnut, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905

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Area Agencies on Aging 14 South Chestnut, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80905

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