The AARP Juneau Community Council attended the Jan. 15, “Annual Elders and Caregivers Workshop,” hosted by the Central Council Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska. The focus was “Medicaid Opportunities in Alaska, Juneau Senior Housing and Services Demand Study, and Advanced Planning for Long Term Care: A Checklist for Elders and their Caregivers.”
There were several community organizations, all sharing and networking. The lively conversation around the AARP table was often about living independently: “My family tries to take care of me; they are so busy.”
The question of ways to support the family caregiver often surfaced. To assume the duties of becoming a caregiver in your family is often fraught with increasing difficulties and frustrations. This year AARP is advocating several ideas that address the situation. AARP Alaska will be working with the members of the Alaska legislature to give family caregivers more support. The Juneau Community Council will be roaming the legislative halls to give added support.
Another thought: Use the AARP Caregiving Resource Center. It is filled with information and helpful ideas. http://www.aarp.org/caregiving.
Contact me in Juneau: Liz Lucas, 907-789-9655
