Caregiver Information
USDA
The Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) is a USDA agency that addresses family caregiving needs and aging issues with information on nutrition, financial security, health, and housing. Access eXtension's caregiving resources at www.extension.org/family caregiving or visit the USDA's National Agricultural Library's Consumer Corner at fnic.nal.usda.gov.
'Ask Medicare' seeks to cut red tape for caregivers
Moving Delphine into her house wasn't so easy: She needed medical equipment including a wheelchair, medication and round-the-clock care. Medicare personnel helped her get some of the medical supplies she needed and also recommend a new Web site called Ask Medicare.
HBO The Alzheimer’s Project.
In May 2009, HBO premiered The Alzheimer’s Project, a groundbreaking four part documentary series about Alzheimer’s disease, presented in association with the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Association. The series takes a close look at the pioneering discoveries made by the country’s leading scientists, as well as the effects of this debilitating and fatal disease both on those with Alzheimer’s and on their families.
Plan Now for Flu Season
Medicare now covers vaccines for both the H1N1 flu and seasonal flu. Symptoms of both flu types are similar, and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chill and fatigue.
Here's what you can do to prepare:
»Get a seasonal flu shot
»Wash your hands often
»Ask if you need a pneumonia shot
»Ask someone now to help with caregiver responsibilities if you're sick
»Watch for recommendations on getting vaccinated for H1N1
For more information on flu symptoms and precautions, visit www.flu.govor www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu
Download Medicare's comprehensive guide for caregivers about benefits and coverage.
Terry Stephens: A Caregiver's Story
Five years ago, I became a caregiver for my husband after he suffered the removal of a meningioma (tumor) that had been growing for 15 to 20 years and a subdural hematoma. Sadly, he then developed Alzheimer's disease. In 2006, an aortic valve replacement procedure caused an even greater decline in his memory.
My biggest frustration as a caregiver is not being able to have a break for myself through the more frequent use of a sitter. Sitters are not covered under our insurance. I find resources on caregiving from the Alzheimer's Association Web site and also conduct research on my own as part of my graduate school project.
Sandra Day O'Connor
Associate Supreme Court Justice (Ret.)
"Most people never expect that one day they will have to assume the role of a caregiver. Whether it is taking care of a spouse, parent, child, or neighbor, the role of a family caregiver can be very demanding, both physically and emotionally. I applaud the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for highlighting the issue of caregiving and providing a resource that may help with the tough challenges family caregivers face."
Have your loved one get a free flu shot today! Encourage your loved one to get these free shots once a year during flu season. For more information, view Your Guide to Medicare's Preventive Services
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