Essentials for Seniors living alone to maintain their independence
The National Council on Aging recently updated a comprehensive list of suggested resources for seniors living alone. Over 25% of U.S. adults age 60 and older were living alone in 2020, according to the Pew Research Center, and this number is projected to increase as the baby boomer generation reaches retirement age. In order to maintain their independence, this article summarises the key areas of competence that seniors must maintain. Importantly, this can be an area where support from family or professional caregivers can play a role, i.e.:
- Finances
- Medication Management
- Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
- Transportation
- Housekeeping
- Food
- Health Care
- Social Engagement
https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/medical-alert-systems/support-for-older-adults-living-alone/
Support for Family Caregivers
Care.com has 14 resources specifically for family caregivers. These are some of the main organizations that can help you take care of an aging loved one. They offer educational programs, caregiving tips, support groups, respite care, and assistance with medical needs and financial obligations
Family caregiver’s potential setbacks as a result of care burden
This recent news article features Connie Siskowski, a long-time activist for young people who are caring for ill, disabled, or aging family members. The article highlights the increasing demands on family caregivers, where this can affect the lives of increasingly younger family caregivers, which can disrupt their schooling and other education, leading to longer term economic challenges. The implications of course are that more needs to be done to provide support and funding so that families do not have to absorb so much of the burden of care.
https://www.foxnews.com/media/families-struggling-afford-home-care-leading-more-youth-caregivers-nonprofit-founder