Half of the nation’s 40 million family caregivers are performing complicated medical/nursing tasks for their family members and friends, including giving injections, preparing special diets, managing tube feedings, and handling medical equipment, according to a recent report from AARP. Additionally, 70% of these caregivers are dealing with the stress of managing pain relief amid a national opioid crisis. Continue reading
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The number of middle-income seniors age 75 and older is projected to nearly double over the next decade and likely will continue struggling to find affordable senior housing with supportive personal care services, according to a new study from the NORC research institute at the University of Chicago.
The study, published online in the April 24 issue of Health Affairs, identifies a vast new “middle market” for the seniors housing and care industry. The authors underscore the need for government and private sector actions to ensure middle-income seniors can afford the housing and care they will need. Continue reading
Despite the growing numbers of elders from different races, ethnicities, and sexual orientations, many of these older individuals are still marginalized when it comes to finding or accessing services and supports. That’s also true for those family members who care for them, according to a panel of experts at the recent Aging in America conference in New Orleans. Continue reading
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More than 15 percent of the U.S. population – one in every seven people – is now age 65 or older. That’s an increase of about 2 percent from just five years ago. The rapid growth in the 65-plus and especially in the 85-plus demographics are fueling this surge.
These statistics are among many useful findings in “Profile of Older Americans: 2017.” This annual report from the Administration for Community Living (ACL) summarizes data on the older population, primarily sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau. Continue reading
Photo: National Institute on Aging – NIH
Family caregivers often struggle when finding appropriate care options for their loved ones. Siblings may argue over different approaches. Spouses may need a helping hand at home. Finding an assisted living or skilled nursing facility can be frightening and confusing. Cost and quality of care are always concerns.
The good news is they don’t have to wade through these issues alone. Geriatric care managers — specialists in helping older adults and their families plan and coordinate care — can be a lifesaving option for many people. Continue reading
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Anyone who has helped an ailing loved one knows that the job of a caregiver is not easy. When cognitive decline is part of the mix, the job becomes even more challenging.
Researchers and occupational therapy students at the University of Buffalo (UB) are developing a model to help ease some of the burdens on those caring for frail elders with dementia. They are partnering with regional PACE (Program of All Inclusive Care for the Elderly) programs to meet the unique needs of older caregiving spouses. Continue reading