Submitted by the Friends of the Bedford COA
Caregivers come in all ages, genders, and backgrounds. They provide care, support, and love for spouses, parents, children, grandchildren, various family members, and friends of all ages and conditions. They juggle a multitude of responsibilities, emotions, and challenges while providing care, frequently 24-7, and without a support system of their own.
A recent national AARP survey disclosed that there are approximately 48 million unpaid caregivers in the United States. They serve as a crucial part of the healthcare system and represent about $600 billion in unpaid labor each year.
Being a caregiver also comes with personal expense and increases your:
- Stress level by 65 percent
- Worry by 61 percent
- Concern about the future by 60 percent
- Anxiety by 57 percent
- Sadness and depression by 45 percent
- Loneliness by 38 percent
- Anger by 27 percent
Everyone is invited to attend “Caring for the Caregiver,” an interactive panel presentation and discussion, sponsored by the Friends of the Bedford COA (FBCOA) at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 18 in the Flint Room. Community health care specialists Dee Franks, RN, from Right at Home, and Janet Bonitatibus from Stonebridge at Burlington will offer insight and experience into the needs of caregivers with tips and strategies to help lighten the load that caregivers carry.
Call the Bedford COA at 781-275-6825 to sign up for the program or for more information. All are welcome. Light refreshments provided.
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