What It Means to be a Caregiver

Posted: 11/8/2012 3:19 PM by Interim HealthCare

According to AARP, one in four American adults help provide senior home care to an older parent, spouse, adult relative or loved one. Family support is critical for seniors to remain in their homes and in their communities, but it often comes at a substantial cost.

As reported in AARP’s report Valuing the Invaluable: 2011 Update The Growing Contributions and Costs of Family Caregiving, in 2009, about 42.1 million family caregivers in the U.S. provided care to an adult with limitations in daily activities at any given point in time, and about 61.6 million provided care at some time during the year. The estimated economic value of their unpaid contributions was approximately $450 billion in 2009, up from an estimated $375 billion in 2007.

At Interim HealthCare, we understand the frontline difference professional in home care can provide.. Our services range from skilled nursing services such as disease treatment, IV management, therapy and medication management, to non-medical support with activities of daily living such as bathing & grooming assistance, meal planning & preparation, errands, transportation, light housekeeping and companionship.

As you can see, caregivers wear many hats and can serve many different roles. Household tasks, personal care and nursing are certainly all important, but most of all, caregivers provide companionship and emotional support to the ones we love the most.