Caregivers' Needs Often Overlooked
Several programs of benefit to Glasscock County residents are available through the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) of the Permian Basin. These were presented to the local senior citizens by Raynetta Williams at the group's meeting Sept. 3.
Williams, a caregiver specialist with AAA, described in depth the Family Caregiver Support Program. She defined a "caregiver" as an individual who is caring for a person over 60 who requires assistance in the home. She said caregivers often overlook their own welfare in the effort to care for someone else. The program provides caregivers information about various resources, education and training to meet an individual's specific needs, support group development, networking with other caregivers, respite services (temporary relief services for caregivers), stress and time management, plus financial and legal information.
Internet Sites Provide Information
Williams said local residents may access several sites on the Internet to get information and assistance regarding caregiving, as well as other matters of concern. Among Internet sites Williams mentioned is the National Alliance for Caregiving at www.caregiving.org, which provides links to many other useful sites. For those who do not have home Internet access, public-use computers with that access are available in the Community Center, along with a full listing of caregiver Internet sites.
For a subscription to "Senior Insights," the AAA's newsletter, more information on caregivers’ support, or on topics related to aging, contact AAA at 915/563-1061 or 800/491-4636.