Caregivers need care too.

The older population, especially the elderly (80+) and their family members get lost in the navigation of the numerous programs and complicated systems available. The caregivers stress over the mental or health issues of their loved one puts pressure onto the entire family when trying to find help. Having one place to go and get the direction they need is liberation from that pressure. It is important to understand what information is available and applying it to meet the goals of the caregiver. Moreover, if the elderly lack family support or funding to access these programs, they fear becoming completely forgotten. That is why a patient advocate/navigator is a healthy choice all around. Additionally, it is important to remember the caregiver also needs to receive care. Hospice care sources estimate that spouses providing end-of-life care for patients with lung cancer in hospice programs report an average of over 120 hr per week of care giving. Caregivers have a large impact on the health of the elderly they care for and the eventual outcome of the care. Offering an outlet to caregivers to express themselves is productive for both the caregiver and the elder, using other family members or friends reduces stress. Remember, it is important to connect with others via support groups, online conversations, newsletters, blogs, and family groups’ events.