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By JoAnn Keith
JAKE AND DAWN are a couple in their early 50s. They run their own business, and
own their home. They have two children, ages 15 and 17.
Last year, Jake’s father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Jake’s mother is having a difficult time figuring out how to handle this new crisis
in their lives. She relies heavily on Jake and Dawn for emotional support, and
for help with household tasks.
Jake and Dawn’s time is stretched thin. Between caring for their children, caring for his
parent’s home, helping Jake’s mother with medical decisions and working – there is little time to even have a quiet dinner together.
According to Statistics Canada, one-fifth of the population over age 45 is
providing unpaid care for a senior. Sandwiched between caring for their own
children and caring for aging parents, Jake and Dawn are among this group – which has come to be called the Sandwich Generation.
Looking at the issue from another point of view, Jake’s mom Amy is a 75 year old woman. She is uncertain how long she and her husband
will be able to live in their home, and she now needs help almost daily.
Things she never gave a second thought to, such as going for a walk or making a
trip to the grocery store, must now be planned – or postponed altogether.
Her struggle to maintain some level of independence is as challenging as Jake
and Dawn’s overburdened schedule.
The good news is there is a growing number of businesses providing services for
people stuck somewhere in the sandwich.
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These services allow seniors to maintain independence, while taking pressure off
family members.
Home support services will work with seniors and family members to develop a
plan centred on the individual.
This could involve taking the client to medical appointments and recreational
activities, providing companionship or assisting with housekeeping, meals and
shopping.
Seniors do not have to be lonely, nor do family members have to shoulder all of
the physical, emotional and social needs of a senior for whom they are
responsible.
JoAnn Keith operates Caring 4 U Support Services in Kelowna.
Contact: caring4u.ca.
January 2010
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