Three steps everyone should take before, and once you become a family caregiver

We begin with BREAKING NEWS.

Hello KIRC family.

U.S. Census numbers have been warning us of this trend for quite some time: “The 2030 problem.”

What is that? Consider this: the number of Americans over the age of 65 is projected to outnumber most all other age groups by 2030. That is just a few years off. For just one moment, think about the implications of what this means.

As the National Library of Medicine explains in recent research:1

A major public policy concern in the long-term care field is the potential burden an aging society will place on the care-giving system and public finances. The “2030 problem” involves the challenge of assuring that sufficient resources and an effective service system are available in thirty years, when the elderly population is twice what it is today. Much of this growth will be prompted by the aging of the Baby Boomers, who in 2030 will be aged 66 to 84—the “young old”—and will number 61 million people. In addition to the Baby Boomers, those born prior to 1946—the “oldest old”—will number 9million people in 2030.

What does this mean in practical terms?

Today – a report from a woman who is more than just a statistic. She is living this reality. She is the face and voice of so many of us who have been, are, or are about to become family caregivers.

Angela Jones is an only child, a daughter, and the primary caregiver to her aging mother, who has been diagnosed with Dementia.

Like many others, she is facing daily challenges of juggling family care, managing her own career and looking ahead to plan for her future.

Keeping It REAL Caregiving had the opportunity to speak with this national-level news producer and writer about her experience and lessons learned.

Check out our interview as we tackle topics including:

• Staying alert to health warning-signs of decline

• Managing elder care

• Maintaining personal emotional health

• Addressing workplace stigma as a caregiver

• What doctors, and policy and lawmakers need to consider

• Why everyone should make a plan before crisis strikes

Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the Keeping It REAL Caregiving YouTube Channel!

Keeping it REAL Caregiving extends a huge ‘Thank You’ to Ms. Angela Jones for taking the time to share with all of us. And of course, our positive wishes as she continues to care for her mother (who you’ll meet in the video segment).

*Have an idea that has helped you in your caregiving journey that you believe would be valuable to others? KIRC would love to hear from you. And, we are always thrilled when you consider sharing our content with others!

Until next time~
Julia