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Health & Fitness

What Every Family Caregiver Should Know

It's easy for family members and other caregivers to feel overwhelmed by the increased level of care needed for aging adults.

Pinellas County is home to more than 190,000 adults age 65 and over and that number is expected to grow.  As seniors age and diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia become more prevalent, it is important that their caregivers have access to guidance on how to best care for their loved ones.

National statistics from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Service/Administration on Aging indicate that the older population itself is increasingly older.  With adults living longer, caregivers are taking on more important roles.

Following are some tips for family caregivers:

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  • Accept help: Create a “wish list” that will be available when people ask if they can help -- and then let them help!
  • Join a support group: Caregivers who establish a support system and share their experiences with others who are in similar situations report feeling less stressed with fewer problems.
  • See a doctor: Staying up to date on immunizations and screenings will lower the risk of catching or sharing infections.
  • Manage your stress: Caregivers can strengthen their coping and stress management skills by discussing their feelings with others and setting limits that don’t exceed their capabilities.

It’s easy for family members and other caregivers to feel overwhelmed by the increased level of care needed for aging adults.  With a better understanding of assisted living, home care and rehabilitation services, caregivers are better prepared to deal with the emotional, financial and physical stress that they and their loved ones are experiencing.

Grand Villa of Largo hosts free caregiver seminars each month at the community, 750 Starkey Road, Largo, FL 33771.  Residents and community members are welcome.  For more information, please contact (727) 493-0164.

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About this column: Caring for aging parents while managing your own life can be a daunting task. Larry Prescott, executive director of Grand Villa of Largo (http://www.largoseniorliving.com/) an assisted living and Alzheimer’s care facility, gives you resources to help you along the way.

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