Financial stress relief for family caregivers

A new study shows that a record 53-million Americans are facing unprecedented stress as unpaid family caregivers. Many times the stress related to caring for family members comes in the form of finances when a person cares for a sick or disabled family member. There are programs available that will help caregivers get paid while helping family members. Shelly Perrin with Phoenix Home Care and Hospice explains that the option of consumer directed care can be a financial lifesaver…

According to Pew Research 54 percent of parents in their 40’s are currently caring for seniors while also financially supporting their adult children. To find out more about Consumer Directed Care you can contact most home care and hospice agencies in your community and they can help you through the process, or you can contact Medicaid to get signed up.

Family Caregivers can also get help through respite care which provides short-term stays for seniors to give primary caretakers a break. It’s important to remember that most people want to help their friends and family but don’t know how. If you are overwhelmed, it is critical to ask for help. Determine what needs to be done and assign people specific tasks.