As much as we’d like to think we will always be young and able-bodied, the reality of aging affects us all. Chances are, at some point in our lives, we will need some additional help or have to provide some to a loved one. According to the Administration for Community Living (ACL), a senior turning 65 today has a 70% chance of requiring long-term care in his or her remaining years. Chances also are good — about 60 percent — that the person providing that care will be a woman. It’s worth noting that most of this care is unpaid.
As we observe National Family Caregivers Month, it’s time to honor the selfless individuals who provide care and assistance to loved ones, to raise awareness and educate our communities about caregiving issues and to increase support for caregivers. This special guide is for both those in a caregiving role now and those who will step into one in the future. We hope it will help you navigate the challenges of caregiving with confidence and compassion while preserving your own mental, emotional and financial health.
