IN Bethel Park Summer 2018 | Page 51

INDUSTRY INSIGHT GERIATRIC CARE SPONSORED CONTENT CARING FOR YOUR CAREGIVER AND YOURSELF M illions of Americans are responsible for providing care and assistance for their aging parents—whether they are close by or doing it from a distance. Some are members of the “sandwich generation,” caught between juggling the needs of their aging parents and those of their children, as well as their spouses, pets, careers and fi nances. As caregivers, duties include, but are not limited to: assisting parents with basic needs, medical appointments, preparing meals, and housekeeping. But who is off ering support to these multi- generational caregivers? CAN A SENIOR COMMUNITY HELP? Companionship is one of the most important tasks a caregiver has, but the stress that comes with caring for an aging parent often results in a once-friendly relationship becoming strained. Older-adult parents may experience feelings of guilt because they view themselves as causing stress and anxiety in their children’s lives; however, they’re not yet ready to give up their independence or leave the community where they’