President Obama Proclaims November as National Family Caregivers Month

Last month President formally declared November as National Family Caregivers Month.  An excerpt from the proclamation says:

The true strength of the American family finds its roots in an unwavering commitment to care for one another. In difficult times, Americans come together to ensure our loved ones are comfortable and safe. Whether caring for a parent, relative, or child, our Nation’s caregivers selflessly devote their time and energy to the well-being of those they look after. During National Family Caregivers Month, we honor the individuals providing essential services to family members who could not otherwise look after themselves.

Caregiver support is at the heart of my Administration’s commitment to assisting our Nation’s families. Currently, a variety of programs and services offer help and encouragement to family caregivers. The National Family Caregiver Support Program and the Lifespan Respite Care Act include important resources for caregivers of children and adults, with opportunities to receive much-needed assistance and take part in support programs with other families. These programs allow individuals to remain with their families for as long as possible while helping to ensure the wellness of participating care providers.

The rest of the proclamation can be read at:  http://tinyurl.com/yzb36ch

Caregivers have  been observing November as National Family Caregivers Month for quite some time.  Thanks to President Obama, it is now an official observation.

Thank you Mr. President!

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A Caregivers Vacation Reflections

Atlanta Floods

The Atlanta floods began four days before I went on vacation.  While at home, I was preoccupied with the damage and devastation resulting from the floods.  One of the hardest hit areas damaged by the floods was in Austell, Georgia; about 5 miles from my home.  Since that area isn’t in a flood plane, it was totally unexpected.

After I arrived in the Bahamas and had time to relax and reflect over some things, I began to wonder what we would have done if the floods had affected us. My main concern was how long it would take to get Gladys out of the house. We would not have had time to wait to see how much the water might rise.  Because Gladys moves so slowly, we would have to act immediately.  So I came up with a preliminary plan for flooding and just in case we needed to leave home quickly.

The Flood Plan

I needed a go bag for Gladys.  I already had one that I got into the habit of keeping when I used to travel frequently.  Now I have an emergency bag packed for Gladys that includes a night shirt, robe, disposable briefs, baby wipes, denture cleaner, a change of clothes and a copy of “How to Take Care of Gladys.”  Her medicine is already in a pink hospital tub that is easy to grab.

There is a Comfort Suites that sits on a hill about a mile from my house.  That’s where I would go for temporary lodging in case of a flood.

So, that’s my plan.  Any upgrades to this plan are appreciated.  I’m sure I forgot something.

Twitter and Facebook are Valuable Resources

Even though a lot of my friends and acquaintances think Twitter is nonsense, I find it to be a great networking tool.  The main reason I have a Twitter account is to keep up with what’s going on in caregiving, elder care and dementia.  However, I found a new appreciation for Twitter and Facebook during the floods and my vacation.  When the flooding started, our television, primary phone and television were all out (so much for bundling).  I was able to access Twitter on my cell phone and follow 11 Alive News to keep up with the latest flood information.  Facebook kept me updated about my friends and church members who were flooded out.

While on vacation, there were some problems with my Internet service.  I could receive e-mail but not send and the on-site IT was no help at all.  Obviously, I needed to communicate with my husband, Fred and be available to answer any questions for the caregiver I hired to help with Gladys while I was gone.  Fred sent me messages through Facebook’s private messages and my daughter sent messages through Twitter’s direct message.  My only other option was International phone calls (not an option).  I check messages several times a day so it worked out well.

Last but not least:

Stress can Cause Hot Flashes

This may not come as a surprise to some of you but it was a big surprise to me.  I didn’t realize that stress induces hot flashes.  How did I come by this realization?  On the last day of my vacation I had a “disagreement” with the front desk about a partial refund for my Internet service.  Almost as soon as I hung up the phone, a hot flash!  My first since I left home.  Of course, I didn’t want to rely on my own “realization” so I looked it up.

By far, the most common cause of hot flashes is a stress reaction that causes epinephrine and norepinephrine release into the blood stream. (Your Complete Guide to Menapause)

So to wrap this all up:  I have a plan (of sorts) to move Gladys quickly in case of an emergency.  I have newfound respect for Facebook and Twitter and I try to avoid stress induced hot flashes.  Not bad for vacation reflections.

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