Balancing Life: The Sandwich Generation Melissa A. Talamantes, MS University Of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, Texas

Learning Objectives Understand Caregiving Demographics Identify Caregiver/care recipient resources interventions Ideas for taking care of yourself

Caregiving Demographics 1 in every 4 U.S.households provides care to a relative or friend over age 50 Informal, unpaid care from family,friends is primary source of care for older adults with disabilities in the community

Caregivers Family Caregivers provide some type of care to at least 70% of persons with dementia in their homes National Alliance for Caregiving, AARP,2004,1997

Caregiving Demographics At least 15% of caregivers in the National Caregiving study reported suffering from physical and mental health problems as a result of caregiving (NAC, AARP, 1997,2003 ) 21% of caregivers aged report having physical & mental health problems compared to 9% of those aged 18-34, and 13%, aged (NAC, AARP, 1997,2003 )

Caregiver/Care Recipient Interventions Thorough physical/mental health assessment in primary care setting Appropriate treatment plan and follow-up which include physical/ functional needs Include care recipient when possible in care plans & decision making

Caregiver Interventions Advocacy Assistance Referral for caregiver/elder resources Supportive Services (respite, home- health, long-term care planning) Supportive Counseling & Support Groups

Caregiver/Care Recipient Interventions Network with other Caregivers Caregivers must be active participants in the care of their elderly

Manage Daily Life: Keep Person Enjoyably Involved Manage Behavior: Help Person Remain Calm and in Control The Main Work of the Caregiver Manage Resources -- Including Family Resources for Care Manage Own Well-Being: Caregiver Self-Care

How do you reduce your tension?

Ways to Reduce Tension Educate other family about caregiving issues Pay attention to your needs: Healthy Eating Physical Activity Adequate Rest Find some time to do the things you enjoy

Ways to Reduce Tension Control fatigue Accept changes Plan legal & financial issues Recognize your efforts & let go of the guilt Seek community resources

What would you do with the following free time?

Exercise You have one week available without the caregiving responsibility You have one weekend available without caregiving responsibilites You have one full day available without the caregiving responsibilites You have 3 free hours You have 1 full hour You have 15 minutes of free time

Caregiver/Care Recipient Resources Respite/Home Health Volunteer: Senior Companion Programs Adult Day Activity Support Groups/Church Networks Transportation Eldercare Locator-nationwide toll free service helping older adults & caregivers find local services