Post on 05-Jan-2016
Balancing Life: The Sandwich Generation
Melissa A. Talamantes, MSUniversity Of Texas Health
Science CenterSan Antonio, Texas
Learning Objectives
Understand Caregiving Demographics
Identify Caregiver/care recipient resources interventions
Ideas for taking care of yourself
Caregiving Demographics
1 in every 4 U.S.households provides care to a relative or friend over age 50
Informal, unpaid care from family,friends is primary source of care for older adults with disabilities in the community
CaregiversFamily Caregivers provide some type of care to at least 70% of persons with dementia in their homes
National Alliance for Caregiving, AARP,2004,1997
Caregiving Demographics
At least 15% of caregivers in the National Caregiving study reported suffering from physical and mental health problems as a result of caregiving (NAC, AARP, 1997,2003 )
21% of caregivers aged 50-64 report having physical & mental health problems compared to 9% of those aged 18-34, and 13%, aged 35-49 (NAC, AARP, 1997,2003 )
Caregiver/Care Recipient Interventions
Thorough physical/mental health assessment in primary care setting
Appropriate treatment plan and follow-up which include physical/ functional needs
Include care recipient when possible in care plans & decision making
Caregiver Interventions
Advocacy Assistance
Referral for caregiver/elder resources
Supportive Services (respite, home-health, long-term care planning)
Supportive Counseling & Support Groups
Caregiver/Care Recipient Interventions
Network with other Caregivers
Caregivers must be active participants in the care of their elderly
Manage Daily Life: KeepPerson Enjoyably Involved
Manage Behavior: HelpPerson Remain Calm
and in Control
The Main Work ofthe Caregiver
Manage Resources -- Including Family Resources
for Care
Manage Own Well-Being:Caregiver Self-Care
How do you reduce your tension?
Ways to Reduce Tension
Educate other family about caregiving issues
Pay attention to your needs:Healthy Eating
Physical Activity
Adequate Rest
Find some time to do the things you enjoy
Ways to Reduce Tension
Control fatigue
Accept changes
Plan legal & financial issues
Recognize your efforts & let go of the guilt
Seek community resources
What would you do with the following free time?
Exercise You have one week available without the caregiving responsibility
You have one weekend available without caregiving responsibilites
You have one full day available without the caregiving responsibilites
You have 3 free hours
You have 1 full hour
You have 15 minutes of free time
Caregiver/Care Recipient Resources
Respite/Home Health Volunteer: Senior Companion ProgramsAdult Day ActivitySupport Groups/Church NetworksTransportationEldercare Locator-nationwide toll free service helping older adults & caregivers find local services 1-800-677-1116www.eldercare.govwww.caregiver.org