Caregiver Information
NAC
National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) is a coalition of non-profit groups with programs, publications, and other resources that can help you get assistance when you need it and make sure your loved one is getting the best possible care.
The NAC's Family Care Resource Connection has reviews and ratings of 1,000+ of the best books, videos, website, and other materials on caregiving. Visit NAC at www.caregiving.org.
USDA
The Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) is a USDA agency that addresses family caregiving needs and aging issues with information on nutrition, financial security, health, and housing. Access eXtension's caregiving resources at www.extension.org/family caregiving or visit the USDA's National Agricultural Library's Consumer Corner at fnic.nal.usda.gov.
'Ask Medicare' seeks to cut red tape for caregivers
Moving Delphine into her house wasn't so easy: She needed medical equipment including a wheelchair, medication and round-the-clock care. Medicare personnel helped her get some of the medical supplies she needed and also recommend a new Web site called Ask Medicare.
HBO The Alzheimer’s Project.
In May 2009, HBO premiered The Alzheimer’s Project, a groundbreaking four part documentary series about Alzheimer’s disease, presented in association with the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Association. The series takes a close look at the pioneering discoveries made by the country’s leading scientists, as well as the effects of this debilitating and fatal disease both on those with Alzheimer’s and on their families.
Medicare Helps Manage Diabetes
Medicare helps cover diabetes services and supplies, including:
»Diabetes self-management training
»Medical Nutrition Therapy
»Hemoglobin A1c tests
»Glucose monitors, test strips, lancets, insulin, some insulin pumps
»Glaucoma & other eye tests
»Foot exams and treatment; therapeutic shoes
Get a FREE copy of "Medicare Coverage of Diabetes Supplies and Services" at www.medicare.govor visit the National Diabetes Education Program at www.ndep.nih.gov
Plan Now for Flu Season
Medicare now covers vaccines for both the H1N1 flu and seasonal flu. Symptoms of both flu types are similar, and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chill and fatigue.
Here's what you can do to prepare:
»Get a seasonal flu shot
»Wash your hands often
»Ask if you need a pneumonia shot
»Ask someone now to help with caregiver responsibilities if you're sick
»Watch for recommendations on getting vaccinated for H1N1
For more information on flu symptoms and precautions, visit www.flu.govor www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu
Download Medicare's comprehensive guide for caregivers about benefits and coverage.
Deena: A Caregiver's Story
Two years ago, my 88-year-old mother was diagnosed with skin cancer and was living alone. Her husband had passed 10 years ago and she had come to need assistance with basic activities of daily living. As a result, she moved in with my husband and me. Since I have been the official caregiver for my mother, she has gone through four surgeries and eight weeks of radiation therapy. Furthermore, early this year my mother broke her hip and now needs extra assistance with her care.
When my mother became sick, I had to quit my job as a school teacher to assist with her needs. At first, I tried to keep my job, but soon realized the time and effort truly required for dedicated caregiving and retired at an early age.
Sandra Day O'Connor
Associate Supreme Court Justice (Ret.)
"Most people never expect that one day they will have to assume the role of a caregiver. Whether it is taking care of a spouse, parent, child, or neighbor, the role of a family caregiver can be very demanding, both physically and emotionally. I applaud the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for highlighting the issue of caregiving and providing a resource that may help with the tough challenges family caregivers face."
Have your loved one get a free flu shot today! Encourage your loved one to get these free shots once a year during flu season. For more information, view Your Guide to Medicare's Preventive Services
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