What Every Current/Future Family Caregiver Needs To Know

Reality sucks. And the reality is that at some point, most of us will have to take care of an ill or elderly family member.

When I helped my sister take care of our Dad, there was once piece of information we desperately needed to know and wish we had researched before: how to properly lift and position our Dad.

We didn't want to give Dad any discomfort or injure ourselves in the process. I felt horrible not knowing what to do.

Well, there are 2 wonderful and important resources for you to use, so you can be properly trained. The Broome County Office for Aging and the Broome West Senior Center in Endwell.  Anytime you have questions or concerns, they can supply the answers. They even have regular presentations for the public.

Tomorrow, at the Center, they present "Reduce Your Falls and Protect Your Back."  I wish I had been able to go to this! It includes demonstrations on proper lifting, transferring and positioning techniques. It will also include making a bathroom safer and reducing falls.

The event is from 1 to 3 pm and all caregivers or those preparing to be are welcome. Call 778-2411 to pre-register.

There is so much stress involved in caring for a loved one. Take some away by preparing before you become a caregiver.