Director of Operations-Central Region
Heritage Enterprises, Inc.

This article was submitted by Rose M. Stadel to Healthy Cells. 

Have you recently become a caregiver for an aging loved one? According to the National Alliance for Caregiving and the American Association of Retired Persons, an estimated 22.4 million US households are now providing care to a relative or friend aged 50 or older, or have provided care during the previous 12 months. That equates to one in four US households. Some surveys suggest that Baby Boomers—adults born between 1946 and 1965—will spend more years caring for a parent than for their children.

Caring for an elderly person can be a labor of love. Unfortunately, most people who find themselves in the caregiver role are unprepared for the challenges they will face. Caregivers often feel guilty and frustrated because of the demands on their time and the significant changes this role brings in their lives, and to their family. They may be hesitant to speak up about the difficulty of the job and its physical and emotional demands. It can be difficult to know what to look for, where to look or even what questions to ask. The reality is that millions of family caregivers are experiencing the same feelings.

There is help available. Children of Aging Parents (CAPS) is a non-profit, charitable organization. Its mission is to provide reliable information and easy access to resources for the millions in our country who act as caregivers for the elderly. The local affiliate of CAPS meets the last Wednesday of each month from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Adelaide Retirement Community at 505 North Adelaide, Normal. Group members provide practical advice, understanding, affirmation and emotional support to anyone in need. All information shared is kept strictly confidential. Each month an updated list of available resources, publications and programs is provided.

It is critically important that caregivers take good care of themselves. Caregiver stress is real and can make one more vulnerable to heart disease, infection, depression and other medical problems. Here are some tips from the CAPS group: Ask for help. Accept help when it is offered. Be realistic about what you can do. Take one day at a time, sometimes one minute at a time. Plan ahead; know what resources are out there before you need them. Manage your stress. Keep your sense of humor. Make your health a priority – get enough rest and eat properly. Be good to yourself and take a break. Go for a walk. Most of all, share your feelings with others because you are not alone.

CAPS welcomes anyone interested in the topic of caregiving, not just those with elderly parents. For more information about the national CAPS organization go to www.caps4caregivers.org. For information about the local affiliate call 309-268-4209.

Heritage Enterprises Inc. 
115 W. Jefferson St., Suite 401
P.O. Box 3188  Bloomington IL 61702-3188
PH: (309) 828-4361   FAX: (309) 829-5477