With projections that 20 percent of the U.S. population will be 65 years or older by 2030, caregiving is a responsibility that will touch nearly all American families. In the home health field, we recognize caregivers as a vital part of ensuring that proper care is given to people being taken care of at home. Huguley Home Health Agency recognizes caregivers and helps educate and train them to properly care for their family member at home.
Huguley Health Home recently gave out 12 Caregiver awards to family members who have gone above and beyond to care for a loved one at home. Gene Graves, one of the recipients, cares for her husband, John, in their home in Burleson, Tex. Twice a week Lisa Jenkins, a physical therapist with Huguley Home Health, works with her husband.
Today, it is estimated that 46 million Americans provide uncompensated care for an adult family member or loved one who is chronically ill or disabled. Family caregivers are an essential component of the healthcare system and deserve recognition for their support. The estimated value of the “free” services provided by these caregivers is conservatively estimated to be $306 billion annually. However, you cannot put a price tag on the many things a family member may sacrifice—career advancement, personal pleasures, and even their own health and well-being—because of a combined love and sense of duty to care for a loved one.
Here are some suggestions for helping a caregiver:
1. Offer a few hours of respite time so they can spend time with friends or simply relax.
2. Send a card of appreciation or a bouquet of flowers to brighten their day.
3. Help them clean the home or decorate it for a special event or holiday.
4. Offer comic relief by giving them a funny movie or book.
5. Offer to prepare dinner for them.
6. Take a few minutes to write them a letter.
Lisa Ortner works in community development for Huguley Health Agency. This article was reprinted with permission from the February 2007 issue of the Southwestern Union Record.
