Some parents call it a flash-forward — that anxious moment when a son’s cracking voice or a daughter’s joy over her first job hints at dawning adulthood and permanent changes in family relationships.
Years later, those children often face their own anxious moment when they see the first signs of aging in their parents. How will they manage the shift — gradual or sudden — to caring for those who once cared for them?
The Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) can help. Its caregiver-oriented programs and resources are designed specifically for busy Texans who are looking after family members and other loved ones.
The help comes from both public and private sources and can be anything from home-delivered meals and care coordination to benefits counseling, medication management, information about caregiver and Alzheimer’s disease support groups, caregiver training, transportation, basic housekeeping, local volunteer groups and more.
Many of these programs are available through DADS’ network of 28 area agencies on aging. “Eligibility requirements vary from service to service, and we can help you figure out which ones your family member can access,” said DADS’ Patricia Bordie.
If you’re a caregiver, contact the area agency on aging nearest you at 800-252-9240. In addition to help for your loved one, they also can link you up with National Caregiver Support Program (NCSP) services to make your duties more manageable.
Another option is to directly contact the NCCSP online. Just go to the US Administration on Aging (AoA) website at www.aoa.gov and type caregiver support into the search box at the top of the page. AoA’s site also has a useful Elders and Families section.
DADS’ additional caregiver resources include the Take Time Texas website (www.dads.state.tx.us/taketimetexas/index.html)
Bordie added that caregivers should never forget to take care of themselves. Caregiver stress can lead to insomnia, changes in eating habits, periods of irritation or anger, headaches, stomachaches and loss of interest in favorite activities. To avoid these and other problems, DADS advises:
Talk with friends or family members who may be able to share your caregiver responsibilities.
When you’re talking to your area agency on aging, ask about nearby adult day care centers that can provide temporary care in a community setting.
Share your feelings with family, friends or co-workers — or join a support group.
Take time for yourself.
Bordie said the most important step of the caregivers’ journey is the first one: Clearly and honestly recognizing the changes in our loved ones and our relationship with them.
“Every family handles the transition in its own way. We’re here to make it a little bit easier.”
