Who would be considered the primary source(s) of support for seniors?
Families are the primary source of support for older adults and people with disabilities in the U.S. More than 53 million Americans provide unpaid care to family, friends and neighbors.1 These informal and unpaid caregivers are the backbone of long-term care provided in people's homes.
It’s of utmost importance to support our communities’ caregivers and bring awareness to a vital public health issue that affects the quality of life for many. As our population ages and disability worsens, it’s critical to understand the physical and mental health burden on caregivers, the range of tasks caregivers may perform, and the societal and economic impacts of long-term chronic diseases or disabilities.
1Mental Health America: National Family Caregivers Month
Are caregivers generally prepared and experienced to provide care? Where can caregivers seek support or resources?
Many people assume that caregivers know how to provide care and everything is laid out in a handbook, but the truth is most don’t and end up unexpectedly serving in this role. While caregivers might receive some instruction from hospitals, most say they need more training.
It's important that caregivers work with doctors to learn how to safely perform tasks that may need to be done at home if medical services are unavailable. Caregivers can also consider joining an online support group where they have an opportunity to share experiences with others in similar circumstances and get support and helpful resources from them.
Is there a special holiday(s) dedicated to honoring caregivers?
National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM), celebrated every November, is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers in our community. It offers an opportunity to raise awareness of caregiving issues, educate communities and increase support for caregivers. Additionally, there’s National Caregivers Day celebrated on the third Friday in February.
About the Expert
CenterWell Senior Primary Care has doctors and Care Teams ready to work with seniors and their families throughout the Houston community. These doctors spend more time with patients to help foster deeper, more personal patient-physician relationships. CenterWell is all about giving their patients the time, attention and care they deserve.
If you or someone you know is Medicare-eligible and searching for a senior-focused primary care doctor, visit seniorfocusedhouston.com or call 713.348.9261. CenterWell has 14 locations in Houston and surrounding areas with two centers slated to open in Greater Houston in 2022.