It’s a little known fact: men represent at least one third of family caregivers across the nation. In some respects, they are more likely than women to face challenges. But they are less likely to ask for or receive the kinds of support all caregivers need.

Researchers report a number of issues that complicate the lives of male caregivers:

* Household tasks. Most men face a learning curve when they take over household tasks (things such as doing the laundry or cooking three meals a day). They have to learn on the job.
* Personal care. When it comes to bathroom activities, the intimacy of personal care is especially challenging for sons. But even husbands can feel inadequate handling daily needs, such as fixing hair. When possible, men tend to hire others to do these tasks.
* Identity challenges. The mundane chores of caregiving can seem emasculating. And the inability to “fix” a loved one’s disease may feel disempowering. In addition, men in the workforce report feeling they must hide their caregiving role. A caregiving man is considered less serious about his career.
* Emotional demands. As a rule, men prefer to keep their world steady by avoiding talk about emotional issues. Meeting an ill loved one’s emotional needs can be taxing.
* Emotional losses. Men traditionally get their emotional support from someone close at hand. But that very person may now be the family member needing care. Men tend to feel less comfortable turning to alternative sources, such as support groups.

It is for these reasons that male caregivers are especially subject to isolation. If you know a male caregiver, consider reaching out. Offer to do a household task together. Working together may lead to more personal conversation. At the least, he, like any other caregiver, will appreciate not feeling so alone with the job.

For more, visit http://www.hospicecarecenter.org!

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Ann Gauthreaux and Jane Smart from Hospice & Palliative CareCenter appear on Triad Today to discuss Palliative Care and the addition to the Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home.

For more, visit http://www.hospicecarecenter.org!

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No one likes to dwell on the possibility of disaster. But we all need to prepare for one. Help your loved ones gear up for safety. Whether you live across town or across the nation, the action items are the same.

Identify contacts. Who should Mom or Dad call in case of disaster?

- Because local phone service may be down, choose an out-of-town contact.
- Also identify the address and phone number of a potential gathering place. This might be a friend’s house, or a church, school, or store within walking distance.
- Ask family members to leave a note if they are evacuating. Have it include date, time, and plan.
- Program “in case of emergency” (ICE) information into cell phones.
- Teach family members to text message. Text messaging is often possible even when phone service is disrupted.

Supply the house. Keep a box on hand with at least a three-day supply of necessities.

• The basics include one gallon of water per person per day, food, clothing, bedding, personal hygiene items, batteries, etc.
• Include prescription medications and a first-aid kit.
• Regularly replace medications so they don’t expire.
• Keep copies of health insurance cards and an up-to-date list of prescriptions, doctors, and any special needs.

Address special needs, such as oxygen or a wheelchair.

• Create a network of neighbors. Give at least one person a key to the house. Show everyone where to find the emergency box.
• Show them how to operate any special equipment. Put written instructions in the emergency box.
• Have your loved one wear an identifying bracelet if he or she has a disability or significant medical condition.

Register your family member with the city or county to receive special assistance in a disaster.

For more, Visit us at: http://hospicecarecenter.org!

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What is Palliative Care?

Palliative care is medical care focused on relief of pain, symptoms, and stress of serious illness – whatever the diagnosis. Palliative care is provided simultaneously with all other medical treatments.

How can the Palliative Care team help me and my family?

When you are on the front lines of an illness, you need answers, relief, expertise, and support. Our team of board-certified physicians, nurse practitioners, and licensed counselors makes sure that all your concerns are addressed.

For more, Visit us at: http://hospicecarecenter.org!

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