Healthy Living: Preparing to do caregiving

By Guest Columnist Dr. Stephanie Duguid

Recently, Dr. Chelsea B. Crittle  talked to Mississippi Health Ambassadors about “Planning for the Caregiver,” pointing to the many people who care for older adults and the help that is available to them in Mississippi.

Dr. Crittle shared a powerful quote from former First Lady Rosalynn Carter: “There are only four kinds of people in this world—those who have been caregivers, those who are caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.” Her words dramatize how caregiving affects all of us.

The government has updated the definition of a “family caregiver” to encompass not just family, but also friends, neighbors, and partners who care for older adults or people with memory problems.

In Mississippi, the Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) offer help for these caregivers. These local offices provide services like meals, rides to doctor visits, and time off for caregivers who need a break.

One helpful program Dr. Crittle talked about is called TCARE.  It helps caregivers figure out what they need and creates a special plan just for them. This plan is made with the help of a trained worker who checks in often and makes sure caregivers have the right support. This kind of personalized care is important because every caregiver’s situation is different.

Dr. Crittle also talked about MAC Centers (Mississippi Access to Care). These are places people can go or call to get help with long-term care, learn about Medicaid, and find ways to move from a hospital or nursing home back home. Other programs help caregivers of people with dementia and offer breaks so they can rest. There are even programs that pay older adults to do part-time jobs, which help them stay active and involved in the community.

Many caregivers do not know these programs exist, and they try to do everything by themselves. But asking for help is a smart and strong choice. Caregivers need to take care of themselves too. These programs can help with food, safety tools like grab bars, health insurance questions, and even find someone with whom to talk when things get tough.

Dr. Crittle reminded everyone that being a caregiver is not easy, but it is important. With the right tools and support, caregivers can feel less alone and more prepared. She encouraged people to learn about these services and to share the information with others. Helping caregivers means helping families and communities grow stronger together.

Caregiver tips:

1.       Find out if you qualify. Most programs are for people aged 60 and older.

2.       Contact your local AAA or MAC Center. They can tell you about helpful programs.

3.        Do not try to do it alone. Use respite care to get a break when needed.

4.       Plan early for changes. There is help for moving someone home from a hospital or nursing home.

5.        Join a support group. Talking to others can really help.

Need help or more information?  Call the MAC Center at 1-844-822-4MAC (4622) or visit www.mississippiaccesstocare.org. Also visit www.cmpdd.org.

Caregiving can be hard, but you do not have to do it alone. Mississippi has many programs to help support you.

EDITOR'S NOTE:  Dr. Stephanie Duguid is owner of Do Good ProHealth (CPR Classes) and Do Good Leadership (motivational speaking, and leadership and success coaching).  She is also a Mississippi Health Ambassador.