Vacation Challenges - Aging Parents Left Behind

Main Category: Seniors / Aging
Article Date: 25 Jun 2008 - 1:00 PDT

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Every article on reducing stress recommends finding the time away from your usual routine. "But, how can that be done when providing care for an elder?" most families ask. Linda Fodrini-Johnson, MA, CMC, MFT, Executive Director of Eldercare Services, recommends that family members providing care to elder family members take the time needed to renew their energy by taking advantage of "respite care" in the home. Allowing the elder to stay at home while their "family caregiver" is away is less disruptive to elders, especially those with dementia.

According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, over 34 million adults provide care to a relative or friend over 50. The average age of those caring for someone over 65 is 63. Regardless of age, family caregivers need their own time. Studies show that caregiving can negatively affect cardiac health, insulin levels and immune systems. Depression rates for those who provide care to elders with a dementia can be as high as 40%! Love pulls family members to provide care, but respite and self care allows them to continue this journey of unselfish love.

"Vacation Respite for Renewal" is a new service for families offered by Eldercare Services, a comprehensive Geriatric Care Management business serving the San Francisco Bay Area since 1989.

Eldercare Services provides 24/7 care with the oversight of Professional Geriatric Care Managers. The professional is often a certified Geriatric Care Manager who may also have experience as a licensed nurse or social worker. Care Managers advocate and secure help, services and quality of life for the elder while the family is out of town.

Some families only need a Professional to be on call for them and don't need hands on caregiving. The Geriatric Care Manager serves as the surrogate family while primary caregivers take well deserved rests.

Eldercare Services is a pioneer in a unique delivery of services, providing counseling, geriatric care management, family support groups, classes and direct caregiving. Their professional staff helps families make hard decisions. An empowered family is the goal. Eldercare Services has offices in San Francisco and Walnut Creek, California.

Eldercare Services