American Red Cross Reminds Caregivers: "Take Care Of Yourself As Well"

Training, support available to millions caring for loved ones

WASHINGTON, Tuesday, June 08, 2004 — The American Red Cross is among the legions mourning the death of former President Ronald Reagan. Reagan’s 10-year battle with Alzheimer’s and his wife Nancy’s dedication brings renewed attention to the major issues of health and quality of life that millions of Americans face daily, primarily how to care for a sick or injured loved one. Research has shown that caregivers themselves often are at increased risk for depression and illness. With its Family Caregiving program, the American Red Cross aims to extend a helping hand, training and support to those millions who find themselves in what can be a challenging but very necessary position.

“As a result of the aging baby boomer population and advances in medicine, including longer life expectancies and illnesses that were formerly terminal but are now chronic, caregiving is now a national phenomenon,” points out Scott Conner, Vice President of Preparedness for the American Red Cross, the arm of the organization that developed Family Caregiving. “The economic value of caregiving to society is estimated to be in the billions, so family caregivers are a crucial piece of this country’s healthcare network. We all benefit when caregivers are given the tools and resources they need."

According to the National Alliance for Caregiving, there are more than 44 million caregivers in the United States. Care that used to be delivered by health care professionals to the sick, injured or physically challenged is now more likely to be provided by someone the patient knows. As they are taking care of loved ones, it is important that caregivers not ignore their own mental and physical needs. In its “Caring for the Caregiver” module—one of nine that comprise the program—the Red Cross offers the following tips to alleviate stress:

• Get help. Develop a support system of family, friends or outside sources. Join a support group for caregivers. Talk about feelings with a professional, such as a healthcare provider, psychologist or clergy.
• Be organized. Develop a calendar of who will help you care for your loved one, and when, so you can plan ahead.
• Don’t go at it alone. Talk with your family on a regular basis about how they can share some of the responsibilities. Don’t wait for someone to offer to help—ask!
• Remember you. The physical and emotional strain of your responsibilities can cause depression, anxiety or even illness. Make yourself a priority. Set aside time for yourself each day to read a book, see a friend or go to gym.

In addition to “Caring for the Caregiver,” the Red Cross Family Caregiving program consists of eight modules that help participants gain confidence to provide better care and understand how to approach key concerns. Taking into account that more than 60 percent of caregivers work outside the home, each area is covered in one-hour presentations that offer not only an opportunity to gain valuable information, but an environment of support and fellowship.

Participants may take all or some of the following sessions: