Supporting the Caregiver

Recently, I searched for information regarding the current senior citizen population. I located information from https://www.consumeraffairs.com/

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s latest estimates:

• Over 50 million senior citizens live in the U.S., making up 16.5% of the total population.
• Florida has the highest percentage of senior citizens (21%), followed by Maine (20%).
• Utah has the lowest percentage of senior citizens (10.8%), followed by Alaska (11.1%).
• California is home to the largest total population of senior citizens (over 5.4 million), followed by Florida (4.2 million).

Author Kathryn Parker includes additional statistics for other states. She also describes how people in this age bracket want to ” age in place” which means to stay in their homes and not nursing home facilities. It’s not surprising. My father still mentions his home on Swather Drive.

After reading the article, I wondered about statistics about caregiving. How many caregivers are located in these same states? How many people actually have designated caregivers, people who consistently advocate for the elderly’s needs?

A few weeks ago, I came into contact with a caregiver. Her words reminded me of the vast need to support those who dedicate time and energy to help the elderly. She remarked, ” Someone asked me if I had taken a vacation. I was surprised at such a question and then realized that most people do not know what it takes to be a caregiver unless you are one yourself.”

It made me wonder what resources are available for caregivers. This partial list may be a start.

• https://circleof.com/app/— This resource would have been a huge benefit to me when I was in Michigan!
• https://www.caringbridge.org/resources/caregiver-support-groups/—- Caring Bridge is a wonderful way to connect with others.
• https://news.yahoo.com/huntington-hospital-opens-reichert-family-l–And this! a place at a hospital for caregivers! Excellent idea!
• https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/local/info-2021/state-caregiver-resources.html– This resource breaks down support groups by states.
• https://www.focusonthefamily.com/get-help/encourage-your-elders-faith-and-spiritual-life/– How can the church help? This article reminds the church to help those who are elderly and reach out on a regular basis.

Remembering the elderly also means remembering the caregivers. I think I will reach out to one today. How about you?