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Care
Page Knowing one’s role is very important in Hmong families. In Laos, people were able to observe one another and learn through example. Nowadays, there is less time and opportunity for that kind of close interaction. People’s priorities have also changed, and their roles have broadened. For example, women did not have roles outside of the ones traditionally prescribed to them: mother, wife, daughter, and most importantly, daughter-in-law. Girls would learn starting at a very young age from their mothers, grandmothers, and aunts about how to be a good daughter-in-law, so that when they got married, they would treat their in-laws with the utmost respect. In today’s American society, more and more Hmong women are delaying marriage in pursuit of higher education and a career. They have more voice in the decisions that affect their families and community. Furthermore, it is a reality that women have to contribute to the economic well being of the family by working outside the home. These changes in women’s roles often strain relationships with elders, but patience is always a key to fostering good relationships with seniors. As a Hmong with family, you have a tough choice to decide if you can be a caregiver and then, just how much involvement you can manage. The burdens and joys of being responsible for someone’s care is a personal journey. This journey can be guided some by the assistance of professional service coordinators who can tell you about programs that can support you as a caregiver and services that may be beneficial and supplemental to the care you and your family are providing for an elder. Contact an agency in your area or call on DARTS to locate one for you.
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