If you are a family carer, a new free guidebook is available in Athlone this Friday.
The 2015 Family Carer and Senior Citizen Guidebook, a free resource for family carers and older people, will be available this Friday April 10 from10am till 1pm in Athlone Library.
More than 50,000 people in Ireland are caregivers for elderly parents and relatives, almost one third of the adult population. The caregiving role can be rewarding, but it’s also one of high stress, low recognition, and family strain.
The Family Carer and Senior Citizen Guidebook brings together practical advice and information to encourage and support these men and women who give so much for their ageing loved ones.
Produced by Home Instead Senior Care with the support of Age Action, Nursing Homes Ireland, and Age and Opportunity, the guidebook provides a comprehensive overview of ageing issues and support available in Ireland including allowances and entitlements, financial advice, legal information, community support, and care options.
“Being a caregiver can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Caregivers often feel overwhelmed by the work and the demands of those receiving their care. Over time caregivers pay a high emotional, physical, social, and financial price for caring and giving. The Family Carer and Senior Citizen Guidebook is a support to caregivers and encourages them in their labour of love,” says Jonathan Acton, managing director of Home Instead Senior Care in Offaly, Westmeath, and Longford.
The guidebook also includes real life stories and case studies from those who have prepared for their senior years or who have cared for ageing loved ones and taken steps to safeguard their health, safety, social, and family needs.
“While ageing and caring for loved ones may present many challenges, it also presents an opportunity to continue to live a happy, healthy, and independent life. We encourage older people and family carers alike to take the time to read the guidebook and stop, think, and plan for the future,” says Mr Acton.
