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Easy-to-Use Advance Directive is Available in 20 Languages
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6/1/2008
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The Five Wishes document created by Aging with Dignity helps you express how you want to be treated if you are seriously ill and unable to speak for yourself. It is an easy-to-use advance directive and addresses the personal, emotional, and spiritual issues that people say matter most to them during times of illness. With support of United Health Foundation, Five Wishes is now available in 20 languages. These multi-lingual versions are offered free of charge.
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http://www.agingwithdignity.org/translations.html
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LinkVet Phone Line Supports Minnesota Veterans and Families
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1/21/2008
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LinkVet —the VeteransLinkAge Line™ (888-546-5838) is for Minnesota veterans and their family members. This toll-free customer service line provides information and assistance, crisis intervention, and psychological counseling 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The LinkVet line is answered by staff at the MN Dept. of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) and Crisis Connection, a Twin-Cities-based nonprofit mental health counseling service. MDVA staff, who are veterans themselves, will manage the lines Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Crisis Connection social workers will field all crisis calls during business hours, and all calls after hours, on weekends, and holidays.
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Coping with Holiday Stress
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12/21/2007
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The holidays are upon us again -- ideally a time of joy, good cheer, and optimism for the coming year. Unfortunately, it’s also a time of increased stress, especially for caregivers who typically have a lot on their plates already. The increased demands of shopping, parties, and family get-togethers on top of caring for a loved one can put a damper on your holiday spirit. You may feel like screaming if you hear one more Ho Ho Ho. Typical stress reactions are headaches, excessive drinking or eating, and difficulty sleeping. Take care of yourself -- find some time each day for just you, if only a few minutes to relax in quiet or take a short walk.
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December 4 Teleseminar: How to Escape the Holiday Blues
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11/27/2007
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Call in and join Pat Samples, Minnesota-based speaker and author on family caregiving, on December 4, 8:00 p.m. (Central time), for a free phone seminar on dealing with the holiday blues. You'll learn five Holiday Blues Busters that can keep you from sliding into the emotional pits in the weeks ahead. Plenty of time for questions, too. Call in right from your home--no matter where you live--and join other caregivers listening in on the seminar. It doesn't cost a thing. To register, e-mail Ms. Samples at patsamples@agingandcaregiving.com, put "Blues Buster Seminar" in the subject line, and she will e-mail you the call-in phone number.
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November Honors all Caregivers
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11/1/2007
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During November, many people gather loved ones together and consider their gratefulness for everyday things. How fitting, then, that November is also National Family Caregivers Month. It’s a time to honor caregivers and thank them for what they give to their families and communities. Not only during November, but every day, we at CaregiverMN encourage caregivers to take the following four steps each day to make their lives easier and to raise awareness about the issues they face.
Believe in yourself
Protect your health
Reach out for help
Speak up for your rights
Learn more about this national observance by clicking below.
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http://www.nfcacares.org/
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National Institute on Aging Offers New Spanish Language Website
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9/27/2007
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Accurate, up-to-date information on health issues affecting Hispanic seniors is now available online in Spanish from the National Institute on Aging, which is part of the National Institutes of Health. The user-friendly website has information on a wide range of health topics, including Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and diabetes. Helpful tips on choosing a doctor and maintaining a healthy lifestyle also are available.
The website offers free publications in Spanish, as well as links to other health-related, Spanish-language websites such as Medicare and MedlinePlus.
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http://www.nia.nih.gov/Espanol
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ShirleyBoard: Online Caregiver Community
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8/6/2007
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Here’s an online cargiver community and resource you might find helpful. Named after the creator’s mother, ShirleyBoard is a community for people caring for aging loved ones. Use tools on the site to centrally store your important caregiving information tne then give access to friends, family, and healthcare professionals as you choose. Some caregivers use the site to stay organized, keep a record of their caregiving journey, or network with other caregivers.
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www.shirleyboard.com
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Caregiving & Alzheimer's
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6/22/2007
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The June 18 issue of Newsweek is titled Caregiving & Alzheimer's and features sections on Alzheimer's: Role Reversal for Adult Children, How to Talk About Aging, A Guide for Caregivers, Life as a Low-Wage Alzheimer's Caregiver, and Q&A: Elder-Care Technology, as well as transcripts of a live talk "Caring for Someone With Alzheimer's. "
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http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19131991/site/newsweek/
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May: Older Americans Month
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5/2/2007
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May is Older Americans Month, a time to acknowledge the contribution of America’s older persons and the people who care for them. One of the biggest challenges facing the United States is how we will care for our grandparents, parents, and loved ones as they age. Family and friend caregivers are at the very heart of this care. Thank you for all you do to help older persons live with dignity.
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Share Your Caregiving Insights with Other Families
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3/30/2007
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Family caregivers are invited to share their knowledge and insights to help other families cope with the challenges, as well as benefit from the caregiving experience. The League of Experienced Family Caregivers is a registry of family members who care for their spouses, parents, or other elderly relatives and who want to help other families by sharing information about their caregiving experiences. By enrolling in the registry, you will contribute to research that may lead to better services and resources for family caregivers. The process involves completing a series of questionnaires about your caregiving experiences. Visit the site below to learn more.
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http://www.familycaregivers.uwm.edu
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2007 Resource Guide for Caregivers Available from MetLife
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3/1/2007
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The MetLife Mature Market Institute and the National Alliance for Caregiving, in cooperation with the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a), recently released an updated brochure for 2007 called "Resources for Caregivers." It features caregiver services and support, including books, internet sites, and organizations; financial and legal resources; disease-specific resources; information about end-of-life care; and government resources. Click below to download a PDF of the brochure.
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http://www.metlife.com/WPSAssets/67781651401172585758V1FResourcesforCaregivers2007.pdf
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Medicare Made Easy
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2/9/2007
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The Medicare Rights Center, a national nonprofit, has an informational website (below) on health care rights, options, and benefits. The easy-to-use Medicare Interactive site helps consumers understand Medicare basics, coverage, gaps, drug coverage, long-term care, and other particulars.
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http://www.medicareinteractive.org
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Caregivers Get Some Federal Relief
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1/5/2007
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Congress has quietly opened the door to a bigger federal role for easing a rapidly growing family health-care burden: home care for elderly or disabled relatives. Before adjourning in December, lawmakers unanimously approved the Lifespan Respite Care Act, authorizing nearly $300 million in grants over the next five years that would aid families in hiring temporary help to relieve primary caregivers. The money will be administered through state agencies.
The law offers only modest assistance in efforts that, according to some estimates, now equal about $300 billion a year for American families. But the bill's easy passage signals the growing political force of health-care issues amid a confluence of forces: increasing costs, fraying insurance coverage, the aging of the baby boom, medical advances extending life expectancy, and legal and cultural shifts leading more families to try to care for relatives at home.
The law provides respite care regardless of age, income level, and condition severity. States will make proposals to the federal government on how to spend the money and will compete for grants. (Excerpt from Dec. 23 article in the Wall Street Journal.)
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Long-Term Care Web Resource
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12/19/2006
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A new long-term-care website is available to help consumers get the information they need to plan for such care. “Long-term care” refers to the variety of services and supports used to meet health or personal care needs over an extended period of time. Care and assistance at home as well as assistance in supportive housing or nursing homes qualify as long-term care. This U.S. Department of Health and Human Services web resource offers comprehensive information about long-term care planning, services and financing options, and tools to help people begin the planning process.
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http://www.longtermcare.gov
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Caregiving Education in the Workplace
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12/5/2006
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Juggling work responsibilities and family caregiving is a real challenge for many caregivers. Since caregiver concerns don't stop at the office door, check out whether your employer provides assistance to caregiving employees. If not, ask that they consider it. For example, many companies provide lunchtime eldercare workshops to promote employee health and wellness. DARTS (founder of this website) provides workplace educational presentations for caregivers at companies throughout the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Click on the link below to learn more.
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http://www.darts1.org/kit.htm
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Coping During the Holidays
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11/17/2006
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Holidays are bittersweet for many caregivers. The happy memories of the past contrast with the difficulties of the present. Recognize that things will be different and have realistic expectations about what you can do. Extra holiday demands on time and energy can seem overwhelming, so finding a balance between rest and activity can help. Try to find time for the holiday things you like to do, even if it means asking a friend or family member to spend time with the person you care for while you are out. Do your best to enjoy yourself.
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Caregiving Crisis -- Home and Institutional -- is Coming
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10/23/2006
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A new report, Caregiving in America, gives two reasons for why America will soon have a "caregiving crisis":
1. The limited pool of family caregivers, and the growing number of elders needing care.
2. The growing shortage of paid caregivers.
The report looks at the current state of home-based and institutional-based caregiving. It was released by the Caregiving Project for Older Americans, a joint venture of the International Longevity Center-USA and the Schmieding Center for Senior Health and Education. Visit the site below for more information.
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http://www.ilcusa.org/pub/books.htm
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Medicare Part B Premium Increase for 2007
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9/21/2006
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In 2007, the standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B will increase from $88.50 to $93.50, which is the smallest increase since 2001. For the first time, higher-income beneficiaries will pay a higher monthly premium than will other beneficiaries. Single beneficiaries who make over $80,000 a year and couples whose income is over $160,000 will be affected by this change. For more information, click on the link below.
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http://www.cms.hhs.gov/apps/media/press/release.asp?Counter=1958
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What America Thinks About Alzheimer's Disease
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8/30/2006
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Americans fear getting Alzheimer’s more than heart disease, stroke, or diabetes. However, according to a recent survey, "MetLife Foundation Alzheimer's Survey: What America Thinks," nine out of 10 respondents have taken no steps to prepare for this illness in their future. The study was conducted by Harris Interactive for MetLife Foundation. Visit the link below to learn more.
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http://www.metlife.com/Applications/Corporate/WPS/CDA/PageGenerator/0,4132,P12046,00.html
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Working Female Caregivers Needed for National Study
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7/10/2006
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If you are a female family caregiver who also works full time, you are invited to participate in important research funded by the National Institute on Aging. By taking a telephone survey, you will help employers, healthcare professionals, and policy makers better understand the needs of working caregivers. Women between the ages of 50 and 64, employed full time, AND caring for a relative or friend who is 50 years old or older, may call, toll free, 877-652-4464 to arrange a convenient time for the survey. The researchers know how busy you are, and will be very flexible to suit your schedule. For participating, you will receive a traveling tote bag.
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Make Your Home Safe and Comfortable for Chronically Ill
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7/1/2006
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Are you wondering how to make your home safe and comfortable for the person you are caring for? The Virtual House, an online service developed by Novartis, helps families imagine ways to adapt or rearrange living space to improve the quality of life of chronically ill persons living at home. Using interactive illustrations, you can get tips for every room in the house, specialized for a number of common conditions such as Alzheirmer’s disease, macular degeneration, and Parkinson’s disease.
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http://novartis.com/diseases_conditions/en/virtual_house.shtml
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Women and Long Term Care: Where Will I Live and Who Will Take Care of Me?
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6/1/2006
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Each Mother's Day, the Older Women's League produces a report about the impact of America's long-term care system on women. This year, the report focuses on where older women live and who will care for them. It looks at informal caregivers, formal caregivers, and consumer perspectives on community-based care, assisted living, and nursing homes. The report also looks at how older women interact with our care system for older citizens and the challenges facing consumers and workers in accessing and providing high-quality, affordable, long-term care. Download the report by clicking the link below.
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http://www.owl-national.org/owlreports/documents/2006MothersDayReport.pdf
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Profile of Frail Older Americans and Their Caregivers
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5/1/2006
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The Urban Institute has published a report using data from the 2002 Health and Retirement Study that profiles frail adults age 65 and older who are not residing in nursing homes, as well as their caregivers. The report concludes that the community-based disabled population is sizeable, and that mental health problems are widespread within the frail older population. Most frail older people live alone, but have children nearby who can provide assistance. Many within this population have modest financial resources, often do not qualify for public benefits, and have not purchased private long-term care insurance. Further, many frail older people living at home receive assistance from family and friends and few receive paid home care services. For more information, visit the link below.
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http://www.urban.org/publications/311284.html
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Economic Value of Informal Caregiving Estimated at $306 Billion for 2004
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4/5/2006
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The estimated economic value of informal caregiving by family and friends was recently updated by Peter Arno, PhD, Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine. For 2004, informal caregiving was valued at $306 billion per year, greatly exceeding the combined costs of nursing home care ($115 billion) and home health care ($43 billion). The $306 billion caregiving value represents 6 percent of all U.S. health expenditures in 2004 ($1,878 trillion). See the PDF below for more information.
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http://www.va.gov/occ/Conferences/caregiverforum/Docs/Arno-Handout.pdf
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Guidelines around Dementia and Driving
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3/15/2006
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The Hartford Group, MIT Age Lab, and Connecticut Community Care developed guidelines for caregivers when talking about driving to a loved one with dementia. A Guide to Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia, and Driving is available, free of charge, in both English and Spanish. Click the link below.
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http://www.thehartford.com/alzheimers/
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Workbook on Medicare Prescription Plans Available in Spanish
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3/1/2006
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The National Mental Health Association's Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Workbook for Mental Health Consumers is available in Spanish at the link below or by calling the NMHA Resource Center at 800-969-NMHA (6642), where a bilingual resource specialist can provide referrals to local Medicare resources. Using this tool, Spanish-speaking Medicare beneficiaries can learn about their drug plan options so they can enroll in the plan that best meets their needs by May 15, 2006, the deadline for enrollment.
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http://www.nmha.org
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Communicating with Health Care Professionals
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1/25/2006
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Being able to talk with health care providers is critical for caregivers and elders alike. The National Institute on Aging has published a helpful guidebook, A guide for Older People: "Talking With Your Doctor"
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http://www.niapublications.org/pubs/talking/Talking_with_Your_Doctor.pdf
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National Institutes of Health has Online Registry of Clinical Trials
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1/4/2006
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ClinicalTrials.gov is a comprehensive registry of clinical trials for serious illnesses. A clinical trial is a research study with human volunteers to answer specific health questions. ClinicalTrials.gov, a service of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, currently contains about 25,000 federally and privately supported clinical trials being conducted throughout the country for a wide range of diseases and conditions. Click below to learn more about clinical trials and to search the database.
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http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
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Online Resource for Minnesota Caregivers Statewide
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12/16/2005
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From time to time, CaregiverMN.org receives requests to provide links to providers of caregiver services in greater Minnesota. Check out the link below as a starting point. And view our Selected Links for useful local and national sites about various aging and caregiving issues.
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http://www.minnesotahelp.info
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White House Conference on Aging Completed
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12/15/2005
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Once every decade, the White House Conference on Aging takes place in Washington, D.C. Its purpose is to make aging policy recommendations to the President and Congress and to assist the public and private sectors in promoting dignity, health, independence, and economic security for current and future generations of older persons. For more information about the conference and a list of the recommendations, click the link below.
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http://www.whcoa.gov
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Easing Holiday Stresses for Older Adults with Memory or Behavior Problems
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12/1/2005
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The hustle and bustle of holiday activities can be stressful for older adults who have memory impairment or behavioral problems. Studies have shown a number of ways to prevent or control overstimulation -- and the problems that come with it. Dr. Daniel Sewell, Senior Behavioral Health Unit of the University of California, San Diego, draws on this research to offer suggestions on how caregivers can help elders get the most enjoyment out of family gatherings. Read his suggestions by clicking on the link below.
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http://www.asaging.org/asaconnection/05dec/research.cfm
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How Will Medicare Part D Affect You and Those You Care For?
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11/1/2005
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Are you wondering how the new Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit (Part D) affects you or the person you care for? This new coverage began January 1 and is available to everyone with Medicare, regardless of income, health status, or prescription drug usage. Educational sessions are taking place in communities across the country to help people understand which plans best fit their personal circumstances. In the Twin Cities metropolitan area, click on the link below to find a free presentation near you. Medicare’s online tools to help you compare and choose plans are available at the Medicare.gov site.
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Training Relatives in Caregiving Eases Burden and Aids Care Receiver
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10/18/2005
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According to a study in Stroke: Journal of the American Heart Association, caregiver training may contribute to less burden and anxiety for caregivers, as well as a better quality of life. The study followed 232 stroke survivors and their caregivers, with evaluations done three months and one year after discharge. The study group received formal training in communication and in helping and preventing stroke-related problems. For more information, click the link below.
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http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3033396
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Americans' Expectations about Long-Term Care
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9/15/2005
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The June issue of the Kaiser Health Poll Report features data from the latest "Kaiser Health Poll Report Survey" to explore the public's views on nursing homes and long-term care. Areas covered include concerns around paying for nursing home care, views on nursing homes, and attitudes about the government's role in regulating nursing home quality. Family caregiver views are included. For more information, click on the link below.
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http://www.kff.org/healthpollreport/june_2005/
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Three Health Care Questions Everyone Should Ask
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7/22/2005
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According to the Institute of Medicine, 90 million Americans (nearly 1 in 2 adults) don't understand basic health information. Clear communication between health care providers and patients and their caregivers is critical. The Ask Me 3 campaign aims to help bridge this communication gap by promoting three simple but essential questions patients should ask their providers in every health care interaction. The questions are What is my main problem?; What do I need to do?; and Why is it important for me to do this? Use the link below to download a helpful worksheet to prepare for your next health care visit.
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http://www.askme3.org
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Is Your Spouse a Medicaid Long-Term Care Recipient?
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6/13/2005
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The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services has made available Spouses of Medicaid Long-Term Care Recipients. This policy brief (see PDF below) outlines the rules and regulations surrounding the financial treatment of spouses who remain in the community after a Medicaid beneficiary enters a nursing home. Briefly mentioned are strategies for the community-dwelling spouse to retain assets, including trading assets for caregiving services.
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http://aspe.hhs.gov/daltcp/reports/spouses.pdf
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Resource for Comparing How Hospitals Care for Adult Patients
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5/23/2005
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The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has launched a new website (see link below) to give consumers information on how well hospitals care for adult patients. Hospital Compare uses voluntary, self-reported information that hospitals have submitted to DHHS regarding three major causes of morbidity and mortality -- heart attack, heart failure, and pneumonia. The information shows how often hospitals provide the recommended care for adults with one of these three conditions. Consumers can search for hospitals by state, county, city, zip code, or hospital name.
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http://www.hospitalcompare.hhs.gov
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Tools for Families, Tools for Clinicians in Assessing Dementia
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5/1/2005
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Use the link below to learn about assessment tools used to identify and diagnose Alzheimer's disease and related dementia types. Select from the following focus areas: Symptoms that may indicate dementia; Is it Alzheimer's?; Ten warning signs; Triggers for clinical staff; Initial dementia assessment; Family questionnaire.
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http://www.alz.org/
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Minnesota Caregivers: Online Nursing Home Reports Available
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3/22/2005
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Minnesota consumers can turn to the website below to learn about nursing home complaint investigations and annual inspections conducted by the Minnesota Health Department. Clicking on Nursing Home Survey Findings allows the user to search by facility name or location. This is just one of many sources of information to consider when choosing a nursing home. Check out some Care Pages on our site (click on Resources & Education above) for more ideas about how to evaluate nursing homes and prepare for the transition from home to a residential care facility.
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http://www.health.state.mn.us
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Financial Steps for Caregivers Guide
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2/20/2005
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The WISER Women's Institute for a Secure Retirement has created Financial Steps for Caregivers: What You Need to Know About Money and Retirement (see link below). This guide is designed to help you identify financial decisions you may face as a caregiver. These decisions can affect both your short and long-term financial security, including your own retirement. One study found that, on average, caregivers lose $659,130 over a lifetime in reduced salary and retirement benefits (from the National Center on Women and Aging). The guide has four steps: budgeting basics; leaving a job or working part-time; talking to your family about the financial impact of being a caregiver; and saving enough for a secure retirement.
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http://www.aoa.gov/prof/aoaprog/caregiver/WISER.pdf
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Caregiving Education in the Workplace
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1/15/2005
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Juggling work responsibilities and family caregiving is a real challenge for many caregivers. Since caregiver concerns don't stop at the office door, check out whether your employer provides assistance to caregiving employees. If not, ask that they consider it. For example, many companies provide lunchtime eldercare workshops to promote employee health and wellness. DARTS (the founder of this website) provides workplace educational presentations for caregivers at companies throughout the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Click on the link below to learn more.
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http://www.darts1.org/kit.htm
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New Web Resource for Long-Term Care Technology Products
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1/11/2005
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A comprehensive, searchable website (see link below) about hundreds of technology products that improve quality of life and care in long-term care residential settings was launched by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The site provides ready access to technologies that improve care for the elderly and the disabled and will be especially useful for professionals in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, board and care facilities, adult day care facilities, and continuing care retirement communities. Caregivers and professionals can learn about low-tech and high-tech options for areas such as fall detection and prevention, wander management, calling for assistance, and incontinence. The site also highlights key issues to consider, such as regulatory concerns, before selecting a technology. Product information includes names, descriptions and details, price (when available), date last updated, the care issue and the product category, and manufacturer/distributor contact information. The database will be continually updated to include the latest technological developments.
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http://www.TechForLTC.org
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Eldercare Can Be Given Over, but Caregiver Stress Remains
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12/22/2004
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The decision to place an elderly relative with dementia in a nursing home is often agonizing and can leave a family caregiver with long-lasting depression and anxiety. A study in the August 25, 2004 issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association followed 1,222 caregiver-patient pairs in which the elder was being cared for at home. During the four-year study, 180 caregivers turned over the care of their loved one to an institution. But there was no sense of relief in sight. The researchers found that symptoms of depression and anxiety remained as high as before the loved one left the home. In other words, the worry didn't go away. Caregiver symptoms included sleep disturbances, changes in mood, and weight loss or gain. Those who reported a greater burden were more likely to place a loved one in a facility; people who felt that their caregiving jobs were useful and important were less likely to place their relative elsewhere. Nearly half of the caregivers appeared to be at risk of clinical depression after institutionalizing their relative, the authors reported. Caregivers may struggle if they know their relatives dread entering the nursing home, and if they believe the care they will get at the institution will not match what they received at home, a study author said. To see an abstract or full text of the article, click the link below.
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http://jama.ama-assn.org/
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Stroke Risk for Mexican-Americans is High
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12/2/2004
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Mexican-Americans are much more likely to suffer a stroke than are white Americans and a stroke education and prevention plan is urgently needed, according to a new study led by a University of Michigan stroke specialist. The study shows that Mexican-Americans aged 45 to 59 are twice as likely as their non-Hispanic counterparts to have any sort of stroke or near-stroke, and those in their 60's and early 70's are about 60% more likely. The study was published in the American Journal of Epidemiology. Younger Mexican-Americans also have twice the risk of suffering a TIA, a warning sign for a future full-blown stroke. Hispanics are known to have a high rate of diabetes, which increases stroke risk, but they have similar rates of two other major stroke risk factors -- high blood pressure and high cholesterol -- as non-Hispanics. The diabetes difference has prompted many stroke specialists to speculate that Hispanics might have a higher risk of ischemic stroke involving blockages in the smaller blood vessels, which can be brought on by the damage caused by high blood sugar. Learn more about stroke by clicking the link below for the American Stroke Association.
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http://www.strokeassociation.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=1200037
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White House Conference On Aging Launches New Website
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11/1/2004
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The White House Conference on Aging (WHCOA), which is held only once a decade, makes policy recommendations to the President and Congress regarding the dignity, health, independence, and economic security of current and future generations of older persons. For the first time, the WHCOA has established a Web presence to inform and update the public about the conference. The next WHCOA will take place October, 2005. To stay informed about conference progress, visit the link below.
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http://www.whcoa.gov
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Prescribing Inappropriate Medications for Elders is a Common Occurrence
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10/5/2004
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Prescribing inappropriate and sometimes dangerous medications for elderly patients is relatively common and unnecessarily puts patients at risk, according to research reported in the August issue of The Archives of Internal Medicine (see link below).
The researchers found that 21%, or 162,370, of medical claims by elderly patients showed they filled a prescription for one or more drugs that should be avoided, or aren't appropriate, for this age group.
Family caregivers shouldn't hesitate to question physicians and pharmacists when new prescriptions are issued. Understanding the array of drugs their loved ones take each day is the first step in knowing what is necessary and what might not be.
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http://archinte.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/extract/164/15/1603
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Some Tips for Aging Services Professionals on Caregiving Stages
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9/15/2004
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At a recent conference for aging services professionals, CaregiverMN staff hosted a poster display on the six stages of caregiving. Each stage included a caregiver profile, questions to ask, and web resources for each stage. Poster materials were adapted from Denise Brown's The Caregiving Years. For more information on this poster session, a listing of stage-related websites, and related handouts, e-mail us below.
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mailto:info@caregivermn.org
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Some Facts About Long-Distance Caregiving
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8/4/2004
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The MetLife Mature Market Institute and the National Alliance for Caregiving have released survey results of research that examines the challenges faced by long-distance caregivers. The study found that long-distance caregivers live, on average, 450 miles and 7.2 hours away from the care receiver. They spend an average of $392 per month. More than half report visits at least a few times a month, and nearly half report they spend the equivalent of one full workday per week tending to their caregiving responsibilities. Miles Away: The MetLife Study of Long-Distance Caregiving is available by clicking the following link.
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http://www.metlife.com/WPSAssets/30520778401118179212V1FLong%20Dist%20Caregiving.pdf
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Modifying Homes for Persons with a Disability
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7/12/2004
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Making a home more accessible requires modifications that fit both the unique needs of the disabled person and the unique design elements and layout in the home. Because the mix of these factors is never the same, no single set of design standards can be developed for all situations. The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency has an information series on modifying single-family homes for persons with a disability. Topics covered include: Movement, Ramps, Stairs, Lifting Equipment, Bathrooms, Kitchens, Grab Bars and Handrails, and Controls. Click the below link for specifics.
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http://www.mhfa.state.mn.us/homes/Access_Series.pdf
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Helping Your Aging Parent Drive Safely
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6/28/2004
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Families worried about an aging parent's ability to drive safely can get help from a new guide by The Hartford Financial Services and Massachusetts Institute of Technology AgeLab. "We Need to Talk: Family Conversations with Older Drivers" can help families solve their own transportation crises by outlining the best way to approach the topic. Based on a two-year study of older drivers’ attitudes and driving habits, We Need to Talk offers families easy-to-use, practical information to help them advise their loved ones on whether it is time to limit or even give up driving. The 24-page guide is free; click on the link below.
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http://www.thehartford.com/talkwitholderdrivers
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A Family Caregiver's Guide to Hospital Discharge Planning
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5/24/2004
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The National Alliance for Caregiving and the United Hospital Fund (with support from the MetLife Foundation)have released a Spanish-language version of "A Family Caregiver's Guide to Hospital Discharge Planning." The Spanish edition is available online at the link below and a limited amount of hard copies are available. Single copies of the booklet are free; bulk orders are subject to a small shipping and handling charge. For more information, e-mail info@caregiving.org.
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http://www.caregiving.org/pubs/brochures.htm
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Self-Help Guide for Caregivers
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4/12/2004
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Twin-Cities-based Eldercare Partners, FamilyMeans, and the Metropolitan Area Agency on Aging (MAAA) collaboratively developed "Caring with Confidence: A Self-Help Guide for Your Caregiving Journey." This guide offers information, tools, and resources to help caregivers stay balanced and confident throughout their caregiving journey. You can download the guide from the MAAA web site below. Twin Cities area caregivers can receive a printed copy by calling 651-234-2262.
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http://www.tcaging.org/publications/index.html
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Tax Tips for Caregivers
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3/14/2004
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The April 15 tax deadline is looming. Michelle Singletary, personal finance columnist for The Washington Post, offers some timely tax tips for caregivers in the paper's March 7 edition. Her column is available at the link below, but you must register (it's free and easy) to access the article.
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http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A36987-2004Mar6.html
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For Minnesotans: Online Resource/Information on Prescription Medicine
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3/1/2004
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The MinnesotaRxConnect website below provides Minnesotans information on issues related to prescription medicine, including safety and cost-saving tips and programs available to help low-income Minnesotans. You can find out whether your prescription medicine is available at a lower cost from a Canadian pharmacy and get ordering information.
You can also seek information by phone by calling Minnesota RxConnect at (800) 333-2433.
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http://www.MinnesotaRxConnect.com
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Can Seasonal Changes Bring On Depression?
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2/1/2004
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As the seasons change and days shorten, some people may develop symptoms of depression. Seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), occurs with seasonal changes in sunlight. Symptoms include increased sadness, irritability, anxiousness, changes in appetite, sluggishness, and sleeping for long periods of time. These symptoms can be severe enough to affect quality of life. Several types of treatment are available for SAD -- one involves using artificial light to simulate sunlight. Because depression has many causes, it's important to consult with a health care provider or mental health professional before seeking treatment. For more information about depression-related affective disorders, click on the link below.
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http://www.drada.org
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Follow-up to January 21 Airing of PBS Special: The Forgetting: A Portrait of Alzheimer's
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1/22/2004
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If you tuned in to the PBS special, The Forgetting: A Portrait of Alzheimer's, and want to learn more, check out the link below. Today (January 22) at 12:00 noon (Eastern), join "The Forgetting" author David Shenk for an online chat.
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http://www.pbs.org/theforgetting/
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Information to Help Prepare for Loved One's Discharge from Hospital
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1/22/2004
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The National Alliance for Caregiving has online and print copies available of the publication A Family Caregiver's Guide to Hospital Discharge Planning. Sections include "what is it?," "who does it?," "when should it happen?," "what will insurance pay for?," and "what else should you know?" Click on the link below for the PDF of this publication. A single hard copy of the booklet is free; bulk orders are subject to a small shipping and handling charge.
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http://www.caregiving.org/pubs/brochures/familydischargeplanning.pdf
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Report Card Gives a D Grade to Elders' Dental Health
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12/16/2003
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A national report card on the oral health of older Americans gives poor grades to all states in America and an overall national grade of D based on a report by the advocacy group, Oral Health America. Without detection and care, common dental conditions can result in pain, dysfunction, serious disease, and even death.
In most states, the report found, few older people have private dental insurance. Private insurance can be critical because Medicare doesn't cover routine dental care. See the link below for more details.
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http://www.oralhealthamerica.org
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Coping During the Holidays
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12/5/2003
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Holidays are bittersweet for many caregivers. The happy memories of the past contrast with the difficulties of the present. Recognize that things will be different and have realistic expectations about what you can do. Extra holiday demands on time and energy can seem overwhelming, so finding a balance between rest and activity can help. Try to find time for the holiday things you like to do, even if it means asking a friend or family member to spend time with the person you care for while you are out. Do your best to enjoy yourself.
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New On-Line Database about Medicaid Benefits by State
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11/21/2003
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To better understand Medicaid’s flexibility and varied services at a state level, the Kaiser Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured (KCMU), along with the National Conference of State Legislatures, is releasing a new online database on Medicaid benefits in the 50 states, DC, and the U.S. territories. The database (see link below) is comprehensive, including who is eligible for benefits and what limitations, co-payments, and payment rules apply. You can search the database by Medicaid benefit as well as by state. The database is based on a survey conducted by Health Management Associates.
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http://www.kff.org/medicaidbenefits/index.cfm
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In Honor of all Caregivers
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11/10/2003
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During November many people gather loved ones together and consider their gratefulness for everyday things. How fitting, then, that November is also National Family Caregivers Month. It’s a time to honor caregivers and thank them for what they give to their families and communities. We at CaregiverMN are grateful for all you do and join in celebrating the gift of you.
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10/20/2003
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Many elders fear the possibility of being a burden on their kids. This fear is one reason they may be reluctant to ask for help. Something adult children could consider is to approach their elders with the attitude that it's a pleaure to spend time together. Perhaps the elders would then look forward to working with their children to make the best of challenging situations as they arise. As Pablo Casals, the world-renowned cellist said, "The capacity to care is the thing that gives life its deepest significance and meaning."
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Long-Term Care Insurance -- Who Needs It?
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10/11/2003
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No one likes to think about insurance or face the prospect of needing long-term health care, but starting about 2010 (as post-war baby boomers begin turning 65), the demand for long-term care services is expected to rise dramatically. According to the Minnesota Department of Commerce, the rapid rise of the state's senior population is expected to strain the resources of individuals, families, and government at all levels over the next 30 years. The same will be true in many other parts of the country. Long-term care insurance is gaining importance among baby boomers as an option to meet future health expenses not covered by traditional health insurance.
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http://www.newyorklife.com/cda/0,3254,12600,00.html
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All Ages Cherish Independence
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9/15/2003
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"Our treatment of both older people and children reflects the value we place on independence and autonomy. We do our best to make our children independent from birth...and the old people we respect are the ones who will fight for their independence."
Margaret Mead
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Talking About End-of-LIfe Issues
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8/1/2003
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Conversations about end-of-life issues can be tough. Families often avoid such hard discussions and can then be unprepared when an unexpected illness or injury occurs. To make it easier for families to start talking, a new resource guide is available called Conversations Before the Crisis. It offers conversation openers, sample dialogues, and a resource listing for further guidance. You can download a PDF of the guide at the link below. Hard copies can be ordered by e-mailing your request to lastacts@aol.com.
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http://www.caringinfo.org/files/public/Conversations_Before_Crisis_booklet.pdf
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Caregivers' Immune Systems at Risk
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7/16/2003
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It's no secret that taking care of a chronically ill loved one over long periods of time produces stress for the caregiver. A new study provides strong evidence that such continuing stress boosts the risk of age-related diseases by prematurely aging caregivers' immune systems. The damaging effects continue for years after the loved one has died, the study found. To learn more, go to:
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http://atsh.org/news/cgv_study.html
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6/30/2003
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The National Alliance for Caregiving has made available "The MetLife Study of Sons at Work: Balancing Employment and Eldercare." Conducted by the Alliance and Towson University's Center for Productive Aging for the MetLife Mature Market Institute, this study includes information on the typical male caregiver, the differences and similarities of male and female caregivers, and how to manage the effects of caregiving on work. Read the report at:
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http://www.caregiving.org/SonsAtWork.pdf
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Recognizing Caregivers in Faith-Based Settings
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6/1/2003
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One way to acknowledge family caregivers is to recognize them in worship services and faith community settings. During many services, the presider names people who are ill and need our thoughts and prayers. Ask your presider to end this list of names with a mention of the people who care for them -- the phrasing could be "our thoughts and prayers are with all these people and their family caregivers."
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Resource for Caregivers of Stroke Survivors
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5/1/2003
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A Stroke Caregivers Handbook is now available online. This free resource was created by experienced caregivers through SAFE (Stroke Awareness for Everyone). You'll find chapters on the medical side of stroke, what to expect in the hospital and during rehab, how to adjust to life at home, and how to select a nursing home. The handbook is available in PDF and text-only versions at the link below.
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http://www.strokesafe.org/Handbook.html
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Baby Boomers Coping Well with Changing Roles
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4/4/2003
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Many assume that people in the sandwich generation (Americans between the ages of 45 and 55) must be stressed by the needs of their aging parents and their children. A recent AARP survey of baby boomers asked about their stresses and found that many were “squeezed,” but not overly stressed. This generation is comfortable with, and confident of, its capacity to manage family roles. They welcome caring for their loved ones, but don't want to impose their own future needs on their children. Click on the link below to learn more.
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http://www.research.aarp.org/il/in_the_middle_1.html
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Online Service Helps Find Drug Discounts
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3/10/2003
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BenefitsCheckUpRx, a service of the National Council on the Aging, is a free online screening tool that provides seniors with a personalized listing of their eligibility for over 240 public and private programs that can help save money on prescription drugs. This service is an expansion of BenefitsCheckUp, which provides a comprehensive report on other types of programs and benefits. Access both the prescription benefits tool and the general benefits checkup by clicking on the link below.
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http://www.benefitscheckup.org
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Will Baby Boomer Health Care Be Costly?
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1/27/2003
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A feature item on the PBS-sponsored & Thou Shalt Honor web site says "It's been feared that as the large boomer population reaches its 80s and 90s, health care costs will skyrocket. But research in The Journals of Gerontology says the situation may not be all that dire.
The researchers found that medical costs for seniors who died relatively young were considerably higher near the end of their lives than the costs for people who died at age 85 and older.
The research, sponsored by the National Institute on Aging, came from a detailed analysis of 25,994 elderly people enrolled in Medicare between 1982 and 1998." Click the link below to learn more.
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http://psychsoc.gerontologyjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/58/1/S2
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Does the Internet Help Family Caregivers?
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12/27/2002
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Danita Ewing, a doctoral student in nursing at Oregon Health and Science University, is studying how family caregivers use the Internet to support their caregiving, so that web sites can be designed to help meet their needs. Please visit the site below to find out more about participating in this study. We at CaregiverMN.org look to studies like this to help us make our site as useful to you as possible. Your feedback is valuable.
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http://www.familycaregiverinternetstudy.net
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Caregivers and Retirement
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12/6/2002
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A recent study by Cornell University researchers found that working women who are late midlife in age are five times more likely to retire early to care for an ill or disabled husband than women who are not caregivers. The study also found that male caregivers are more slow to retire than males not providing care for their wives. Click on the link below to learn more.
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http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2002-10/cuns-cfs100402.php
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Honoring Your Story
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11/15/2002
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November, National Family Caregivers Month, is a time to celebrate, thank, and support family caregivers -- people who are often invisible to the general public and to policymakers. One good way to shed light on caregiver issues and honor your work is by telling your stories. The National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) has initiated the Caregiver Story Project to collect the thoughts and concerns of caregivers across the country and share them with legislators, the media, and others who can help make a difference. Consider submitting your own story to NFCA, sharing it with a good friend, or simply writing it in a private journal. Your story is important. You are important. To participate in NFCA’s story project, click on the link below.
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http://www.nfcacares.org/press_room/detail.cfm?num=53
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Are Cyber-Caregivers in Our Future?
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10/25/2002
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Henry Kautz watched his mother provide constant guidance to his father, who had Alzheimer’s disease. A professor at the University of Washington, Kautz is now researching artificial intelligence applications for caregiving. The Assisted Cognition Project aims to develop a network of digital devices and wireless sensors to monitor and provide cues to users with memory loss, thereby giving human caregivers a bit of relief. The first prospect is the "Activity Compass," a handheld device that memorizes one’s daily routine and then offers direction if the user becomes confused. Next will come an "Adaptive Prompter" to keep patients on task while performing daily activities. Find out more about this research at the link below.
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http://www.cs.washington.edu/assistcog/acaaai02.pdf
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Documentary on Caregiving
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10/10/2002
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"And Thou Shalt Honor" aired October 9 on PBS. This documentary explored the healthcare issue of long-term caregiving and celebrated the journey of caregivers who step up to assume responsibility for their loved ones. We'd welcome your comments on the program and thoughts about getting its message out to communities. Click on "Contact Us" above. If you didn't see the program, details are available at the link below.
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