Becoming a family caregiver can turn your life upside down in a minute. An accident, a life threatening diagnosis or general decline of a loved one turns you into a caregiver. You feel overwhelmed.
You are not alone –reach for online resources for help.
Pew Research reports that 44% of Baby Boomers are family caregivers. These unpaid family members care for, or supervise, the care of a loved one. They are primarily women. They usually have jobs outside of the home and other family obligations. Studies show they have extremely high stress levels, are digitally connected, and look to online communities for assistance.
Photo by Rolands Lakis
A recent Johns Hopkins Study reports that caregivers live longer lives than non-caregivers. But that fact probably doesn’t help those caught in the throes of “what to do next.”
Here are some good websites to help caregiver’s immediate concerns about hiring professionals, coping with the changes, and sharing responsibilities.
- CareLinx is a secure online professional caregiver network that helps families find a paid caregiver that matches their specific needs and budget. Families contract directly with the screened caregivers, who set their own hourly rates. Payment is through the secure website. CareLinx charges a 15% service fee to cover the liability insurance, bonding, caregiver screening, payroll processing and tax preparation.
- Caring.com--is a terrific online site for caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved-ones. There are thousands of articles, helpful tools, advice from more than 50 leading experts, a community of caregivers, and a comprehensive directory of caregiving services—including nursing home facilities with member rating.
- LotsaHelpingHands—is a website and also an iPhone app that connects caregivers and loved ones using online tools and a master calendar. This website allows people to coordinate tasks through a Help Calendar and online community. The site is a wonderful tool for anyone who is managing the care of a loved one. There are so options available to help coordinate caregiving that potential users should examine the website and see firsthand the possibilities.
Since November is National Caregiver’s Month, it’s a great time to offer assistance to caregivers in your life.
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