Family Caregiving Columns

If you’re a family caregiver, you know that providing support for your loved one can feel like a full-time job. Finding a balance between caretaking and other responsibilities can be overwhelming, but with a Respite Provider, your loved one receives the care they need while giving you time to rest and recharge.

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As I write this column, it has been 2 weeks since we began social distancing in earnest to keep us as safe and well as possible in the time of COVID-19. While we can expect May to bring warm weather and a greener landscape, it is unclear how soon we can anticipate our return to our usual level of in-person engagement. I can’t think of a better … (read more…)

By the time you read this, the 2020 Caregiving Symposium, scheduled for April 8 at the Boulder Jewish Community Center, may have already occurred. If not, feel free to reach out for a new date. Either way, rest assured we will provide other opportunities for caregiver education throughout 2020.

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If you’ve been to the Caregiving Symposium in past years, you know that this is the most comprehensive family/informal caregiver event in Boulder County. Whether you support someone long distance, are new to caregiving, are experiencing changes in your situation, or have other reasons to be an interested community member, our goal is to expand … (read more…)

It may take a village to raise a child, as the ancient African proverb says, but it also takes a village to support our aging loved ones—especially in ways that sustain us all. Family/informal caregiving of an older adult is one of the most honorable, meaningful, and important roles in our lives. However, when caregivers do everything themselves, … (read more…)

November is National Family Caregivers Month, a great time to recognize the amazing caregivers who make up the backbone of our society. You provide 75% of the care being provided to older adults. While it is impossible to put a price tag on the gifts you give, according to an AARP report, it is possible to determine that the unpaid value of family … (read more…)

As demographics in Boulder County shift such that the percentage of us who are older adults increases, so too does the number who, in one way or another, are living with dementia. In response to this, community advocates and service providers are increasingly seeking to ensure that we embrace those affected, by providing programs that are … (read more…)

If you are new to caregiving or are entering a phase in which the personal care needs of your loved one are increasing, the National Caregiver Training Program, sponsored by Boulder County Area Agency on Aging, may be just what you need. This six-week course is held for three hours each week. Topics covered include safe use of a wheelchair, … (read more…)

When you find yourself in the role of caring for a loved one, you are taking on one of the most noble jobs life brings forth. You may, however, be taxed beyond what is usual for you. Whether you are managing care from afar, performing hands on care in the home, or making frequent visits across town, caregiving often leaves us wondering how we will … (read more…)

At this free event for family caregivers (and the general public) presenters and local organizations come together to share lots of information, knowledge, and wisdom. It brings a unique opportunity to learn about resources and gain valuable education on many aspects of caregiving. Featured are a resource fair of service providers, complimentary … (read more…)

If you are new to family caregiving, or just new to really needing some help as a caregiver, it can seem like you are on your own with the demands of your situation. The good news is that there are programs and resources out here that can help. To begin with, you can always call me to learn about caregiver programs and gather information. If you … (read more…)

If you are finding yourself currently in or near a caregiving phase of life and have concerns about how to cope with all the aspects involved, you are in good company. One way that caregivers of older adults in Boulder County can gather community, support, and knowledge, is through Caregiver Training Classes offered by Boulder County Area Agency on … (read more…)