Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Making a Difference

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Anyone who ever started a non-profit organization would be aware of the desire to make a difference. I am not sure of the statistics, but it is my guess that not even 50% of non-profits or "charities" even succeed or stay in business past the first year. They depend on grant money or donations, and fundraisers are held for so many organizations, the money donated is spread very thin.

Family and Friends of the Aging is a non-profit organization begun as an online support group for caregivers of the aging. Since its conception, my dreams and goals for the group have shifted to more realistic avenues. Many caregivers, like me, find themselves with additional responsibilities and expenses, yet lack of work in this slow economy. Family caregivers don't just need to vent to other caregivers, they need to be educated in a way to give loving care while still being able to earn a living! There must be a way...and I am dedicated to finding it and delivering the education to members of FFAI.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Support Groups for Caregivers

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In the day to day life of a caregiver, maintaining a balanced life can be key to their sanity. It's not an exaggeration that caring for an aging loved one takes a significant toll on a family caregiver. If that person can learn to seek support and use resources when needed, it can make all the difference.

Support groups are a great way for caregivers to connect. Sharing stories and resources offers comfort and suggestions to aid in planning for struggles yet to come. Financial strain is a huge part of what many family caregivers face. As costs of health care and home care increase, they struggle with the sudden new costs they acquire. And many face the loss of work hours due to care responsibilities.

Coming soon is an online support group, the namesake of this blog, Family and Friends of the Aging. We have plans to not only serve as a sounding board for all in need, but to offer educational services as well. Stay tuned!

Saturday, July 19, 2008

Kids Out, Parents In

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Several things have been going on in my world that interfered with the writing of this blog. I hope to be back on track from now on and bring you up to speed with the aging news as I see it.
It seems more aging parents are moving in with their adult children than ever before. The Orange County Register reported that a study begun in 1997 by a UC Irvine professor, show that economic conditions are a catalyst for combining households as baby boomers retire. John L Graham, a marketing and international business professor,says the pension and healthcare systems are falling apart. You can read more on Professor Graham's work at www.ocregister.com.

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Meaningful Life

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This is an interesting time in our family. Tomorrow, my 88 year old mother-in-law will have the battery in her pacemaker replaced, scheduled for early in the morning.

My mother-in-law is a strong lady. She has raised 3 wonderful sons, and lived a life any woman would envy. Why? She is loved. Is there anything more important? The older I get, I am certain there is nothing more meaningful to me than the love of my family.

Sunday, July 6, 2008

Is Anyone Listening?

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This weekend has been restful. I needed it. My mother needed it as well. I think she is missing the attention though as many elderly do. After all, 17 days with someone always with you, attending to your needs, bringing breakfast, helping you dress, walking with you every step to make sure you are steady. It must be quite an adjustment when you are back to living alone. My mother likes attention and she likes talking. I believe that is what she misses most...talking. Knowing someone is paying attention to what you say. Someone hears you.

Thank you, God, for hearing my mother, and for hearing me.

Saturday, July 5, 2008

Good Timing

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Back in the routine! Had the old folks here for a holiday cookout today. None of the three have much going on so our holidays are pretty much spent with them.
I showed the video I'd taken from our trip. Hooked it up to the TV to provide a larger screen. Turned out pretty good! Now I have to figure out a way to send it to the family. Or maybe I'll just save it to a CD and go from there.

I'm doing some serious thinking about a product I'd like to market on the internet. This seems to be the right timing and I do believe I am guided. Time will tell.