Unfortunately, rather than bringing families together, the serious illness of a loved one can often be a lonely and isolating experience for the primary caregiver. According to the FHCP study, “Caregiving has become a normative experience. Although it may bring personal gratification to some, it clearly takes a well documented toll on many caregivers’ physical and mental health.”
In response to the need for support materials for this ever-increasing number of American families, Life Concerns has created a six tape video series titled Homecare for the Critically and Terminally Ill. This series focuses on the physical and emotional preparation and day-to-day tasks of caregiving from the caregiver’s perspective. Presenting such fundamental information as organizing medication, using walkers and wheel chairs, changing bedding and preparing food for the ill, and this series provides caregivers with a resource from which they can get practical and immediate support. In addition, video sections containing interviews with trained hospice nurses and other caregivers provide emotional support during what can be an extremely stressful experience.
“This series demonstrates the necessary techniques of becoming a caregiver for a homebound patient,” says Dr. Kenna Stephenson, former Medical Director of The Life Care Renewal Center for Women Veterans in Amarillo, Texas. “The videos offer medically sound advice and practical suggestions for converting the home into a safe environment for the patient and caregiver. Interviews with actual caregivers along with Hospice nurses and aides provide a down to earth appeal. The format offers clear verbal instructions along with actual hands on demonstrations.”
In an effort to bring these tapes to the families in need, Life Concerns has developed a special Call to Action program with The American Legion. Now through the end of the year The American Legion is being offered a discounted price on sets of the series for their donation to local support organizations. While some American Legion Departments, Posts and Auxiliary Units have already ordered videos, this has only begun to meet the needs of the chronically ill and their families. According to The American Legion National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission Deputy Director, Jacqueline Garrick, “The Legion recognizes the need for these tapes in every support location in America. The families of veterans and others throughout the country will benefit from these valuable tools.”
November is National Caregiving Month. As the trend toward informal health care for the critically ill continues to grow the need for this resource in our communities increases exponentially. Caring for our families in need requires a concerted effort on many fronts. Hospices, Libraries, Senior Centers and other community organizations are urged to contact their local American Legion Post or Auxiliary Unit to order these tapes. With the combined actions of Life Concerns, The American Legion, the local media and advocates for better end of life care, we can bring this valuable resource into already existing local support locations.
The series is also available directly through Life Concerns at 1-888-266-3608, or contact Creator/general manager Judy McDonald at 520-219-5952.