This column is about respite care. Most people associate respite with service-providing care in relief of a primary caregiver, but it can be more subtle. Relief may be an effect, coming from support other than substitute care such as information, friendly visitors, a delivered meal
A skill is the learned ability to perform a specific action or task with good execution and successful results. Skills are developed as we acquire them through training, practice, and experience. They are not innate, even people skills such as empathy or active listening.
What do we know about what supports caregivers? In a previous column I suggested six things; a notebook, knowledge, skills, a plan, occasional respite, and our continued friendship this column is about knowledge. Truly little, even parenting or work life, prepares us for being responsible for care and support of
Charles DeGaulle, former prime minister of France famously said "Old age is a shipwreck" which he used to describe the inevitable physical and cognitive decline, vulnerability, and loss of independence that accompanied the advanced age of a colleague.
Family caregivers provide most long-term services and support in the United States, assisting adults with disabilities and complex health needs such as dementia.
Upon learning a friend has a diagnosis of dementia we find ourselves in an awkward moment—what do I do or say? My suggestion is to be a friend and find a way—the loss of friends for persons with dementia is often reported as one of the biggest losses they face.
