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Calendar "At a Glance"
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A free telephone learning and support program. Select a session right for you.
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09/11/13 (Wed), 2 p.m.
"Medicare and the Affordable Care Act: What you Need to Know! with Lynda Hermes, ALHC, ACSR
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09/17/13 (Tues), 10 a.m.
"Concerned about Suicide?" with Dr. Sandra Vale, M.D.
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09/19/13 (Thurs), 7 p.m.
"Juggling All Your Caregiver Responsibilities" with Lynell Bond, LPC, LSW
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09/24/13 (Tues), 2 p.m.
"Preventing Falls - One Step At A Time" with Lizette Davis, OTR, CAPS __________________
30-minute Sessions Designed for
Working Caregivers
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09/19/13 (Thur), 12:15 p.m.
"Top 5 Ways to Thrive as a Family Careigver" with Evalyn Greb, LCSW
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Sign Up By Phone,
Email or Online
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Register for any scheduled TeleLearning Sessions above by phone at -- 871- 7SOS (7767) or 1(866) 390-6491 (toll-free) (Mon.- Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.); by email, or go to our website.These free phone-based sessions connect family caregivers with experts and other caregivers in similar situations.
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Spanish Newsletter
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Social Media
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Click below to hear podcasts 
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Join Our List
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(You may select multiple lists.)
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Carol's Column
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I always feel like I'm in a hurry. It seems I have so much to do that I'm running a race every day. I work up until the last second when I have to leave for an appointment.
This means I haven't allowed time for traffic, or "slow" drivers, or any unexpected happenings along the way. The result is that I arrive frazzled and stressed even if I make it on time. This is not a good way to be - especially if we are caregivers.
I was recently reminded of this when I was helping a family member get ready to take them to an appointment. It was a morning appointment, and they were waking up slowly. They didn't really want to go. And I really needed for them to move a little faster so I could stay on my schedule.
It took every bit of restraint for me to appear to keep calm and appear to go with the flow. I didn't want anyone to feel that I was hurrying or pressuring them. But inside, I wasn't calm. I really was just as stressed and frazzled.
It's taken me a long time to realize that I do this to myself.
Sometimes, our days are chock full of things that we "have" to do. But on a daily basis, how many of those things are really "urgent?" How many of those things do I really have to cram into my day if it negatively affects me, and negatively affects the person for whom I'm caring? As caregivers, we often try to do too much.
We often try to do it all. As individuals and as caregivers, it helps everyone if we can reduce the crazy-busy things and limit our schedule to the things that make a positive difference and things that matter.
So what matters? As Dr. Jamie reminds us, every day, we need to do something for ourselves - for our physical, mental and spiritual self. That's important. Very important. After that, we need to ensure that the person for whom we're caring is in a safe environment with his/her needs addressed. We just have to figure out how to do it and leave enough "white space" along the margins of our lives, so the page isn't always crammed full.
I know I can make better use of my time, or manage my time better so that I'm not always rushing around. I'm going to start with allowing more time to get myself and my loved one ready to go. I'm going to remember it always takes longer than I think.
As I plan my schedule, I'm going to ask myself if this is a "nice" to do or a "have" to do. And I'm going to check to make sure that I see myself in my schedule - that my life includes me on a daily basis, not just the caregiver who drives and runs errands.
We actually do have some control over how we spend the time that is given to us every day. Let's make sure that our race against time isn't a race against ourselves.
Carol Zernial
Executive Director
WellMed Charitable Foundation
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Join the Conversation
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Individuals, non-profits and organizations, along with state, regional, and local agencies are encouraged to submit for consideration their information on meetings, educational sessions, or resources for caregivers (of seniors, wounded warriors, and children or adults who have a disability).
Please email details and documents (as a pdf or MS Office document--Word, Publisher, PowerPoint or Excel) promoting the item, along with a contact name, email address, and phone number to: Sue Ellen Lewis, Editor, Caregiver SOS Signals Newsletter/eMail Blasts; email: SueEllenLewis@msn.com: Voice: 210-637-5116. |
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Greetings!
DADS Grant Enables Statewide Expansion
Of Stress-Busting Program for Family Caregivers
Family Caregivers who care for family members or friends with Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias will benefit from a new grant awarded to the WellMed Charitable Foundation (WCF) from the Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS). Using the Stress-Busting Program for Family Caregivers (SBP) in diverse geographic areas of Texas, WCF will partner with the Texas Association of Area Agencies on Aging (T4A), Texas AAAs, and other community based organizations to distribute the program using a Master Trainer/Group Facilitator (lay leader) model.  The target goal for this proposal is 512 family caregivers who complete the program. A long-term goal is to reach more caregivers throughout Texas using the existing program model. The DADS project is a seed grant that will allow expansion of the Stress-Busting program across Texas for years to come. It enables WCF to initially collaborate with 16 organizations across the state to incorporate and embed the Stress-Busting Program within their organizations. It is designed to (1) improve the caregivers' quality of life, and (2) help caregivers manage stress and cope better with their lives. This multi-component program features two facilitators who meet with a small group of family caregivers (maximum of eight) to facilitate education, support, problem-solving, and stress management. Using a holistic approach, emotional, physical, spiritual, and cognitive needs are addressed. The project will involve training Master Trainers from community organizations who will facilitate caregiver groups and then train Group Facilitators (lay leaders). Program materials, which have already been developed, will be provided for both caregivers and Master Trainers. For caregivers these include a handbook, meditation CD, and Relaxation Strategies DVD. In addition to getting the same materials as the caregivers, the Master Trainers also get Facilitators' and Training Manuals, facilitators' CD, and Caregiver Journey DVD.  This project will involve 16 community partners (primarily Area Agencies on Aging-or AAAs) and uses existing community resources to distribute the SBP to serve a large number of family caregivers in Texas. Content includes the topics of (1) stress and relaxation; (2) grief, loss, and depression; (3) dealing with challenging behaviors of people with dementia; (4) coping with stress; (5) positive thinking; (6) taking time for yourself; and (7) choosing a path of wellness. Stress management techniques are taught including (1) relaxation breathing, (2) meditation, (3) imagery, (4) art, (5) music, (6) journaling, and (7) aromatherapy. Additional goals include determining (1) the impact of SBP on participating caregivers quality of life, (2) caregiver satisfaction with the SBP, (3) effectiveness of training for Master Trainers, (4) ability of Master Trainers to implement programs and facilitate groups, and (5) the extent that community agencies adopt and plan to sustain the SBP program. For more information, contact Debbie Billa; dbilla@wellmed.net or 210-877-7752. Click here to visit the Stress-Busting Program website.
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MIND, BODY, SPIRIT
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Suicide Rate Among Seniors Increasing
Retirement is often referred to as the Golden Years-the years spent enjoying the new found life of leisure. There is a growing trend among the middle aged and early seniors--suicide.
 The suicide rate among middle-aged and early senior Americans has climbed 28.4 percent, in the last decade, according to a recent government report. The trend is even more pronounced among white men and women in those age group. Their suicide rate climbed almost 40 percent in the time period 1999 to 2009. The suicide rate for seniors aged 65 to 84 dropped slightly to 14.5 percent, but increased to 17.6 percent for those in the age group 85 and older. There are many theories as to why the suicide rate is higher among the middle-aged as well as seniors, those 55 to 64. Click here for the entire article.
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WANT TO FEEL BETTER?
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6 Steps to Protect Your Older Loved One from a Fall
(from www.ncoa.org) Did you know that one in three older Americans falls every year? Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for people  aged 65+. Falls can result in hip fractures, broken bones, and head injuries. And even falls without a major injury can cause an older adult to become fearful or depressed, making it difficult for them to stay active. If you have an aging parent, grandparent, or neighbor in your life, helping them reduce their risk of falling is a great way to help them stay healthy and independent as long as possible. Click here for the entire article. |
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HEALTH SAVVY
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Your friend's mom falls. A co-worker's father has a stroke. You watch your aunt slip into the abyss of Alzheimer's and wonder, "What if that was my mom or dad?" Out of the corner of your eye you see your boisterous and busy kids, a stack of bills or briefcase full of work and wonder again, "How will I manage all this?" Before you know it, that phone call comes and you're in that season -- the season of caregiving.
 It is an unavoidable stage for many. A growing number of Americans have delayed having kids until their 30s or 40s, ensuring that those tots will be younger when their grandparents reach those challenging, senior years. More and more women are working, both inside and outside the home, both full-time and part-time, and trying to hold together marriages marked by busyness and little time for a date out, much less true intimacy. Click here for the entire article.
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LIGHTEN YOUR LOAD
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Mastering the Juggling Act Last week Arlene missed two days of work when she felt uncomfortable leaving her elderly mother home alone. Recently  diagnosed with dementia, her condition makes Arlene fear that she will wander off, or accidentally hurt herself or damage her home while trying to complete a task as seemingly simple as making lunch. This week Arlene's desk is overflowing with paperwork and deadlines. Her mother has a mid-week appointment with her doctor and Arlene's children are expecting her on the sidelines at two soccer games. The tasks related to work, family and caregiving are piling up. Arlene is beginning to feel like she has one too many balls in the air. In today's society Arlene is not alone. According to an AARP report, an estimated 43.5 million Americans are providing unpaid care to an individual over the age of 50, while 14.9 million of those people are also dealing with the struggles of Alzheimer's disease. Click here for entire article. |
TeleConnection Session Details
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These free hour-long phone-based sessions are designed to connect family caregivers to experts with helpful information and other caregivers by providing needed emotional, educational and social support. The sessions can be accessed from anywhere via your phone: no need to get dressed up, find transportation, or get a sitter.
Register for any TeleLearning Sessions by phone: 871-7SOS (7767) or 1 (866) 390-6491 (toll-free) (Mon. - Fri., 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.); by email, or go to our website.
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*"Medicare and the Affordable Care Act: What you Need to Know! with Lynda Hermes, ALHC, ACSR
 Are you confused about all of the information in the media about the Affordable Care Act? This session will separate fact from fiction and let you know what you need to know about Medicare as we head into the fall open enrollment period. Come and participate in the discussion with Lynda Hermes, with the Texas Department of Insurance.
*This telelearning session is FREE and open to all. To register, click here. Flyer for printing/ posting.
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09/17/13 (Tues), 10 a.m.
*"Concerned about Suicide?" with Dr. Sandra Vale, M.D.
 Have you heard a loved one make remarks about ending their life that make you uncomfortable? Dr. Sandra Vale, a geriatric psychiatrist, will discuss with caregivers when they should be concerned and what actions should be taken. This session is not to be missed!
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*"Juggling All Your Caregiver Responsibilities" with Lynell Bond, LPC, LSW
How do you set priorities? Can you effectively multi-task? How do you know what to start doing when for a loved one? How do you deal with the changing relationship with the person you care for and other family members? What about your job? What about YOU??? Lynell Bond will talk candidly about what worked and what didn't work so well for her as a family caregiver, the many caregivers she has worked with as a counselor, and through her work at Meals on Wheels.
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*"Preventing Falls - One Step At A Time" with Lizette Davis, OTR, CAPS
 Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for those aged 65 and over. It is estimated that during 2011 approximately 1,137,500 older Texans age 60 and older and between 900 and 1,000 Texans age 75 and older died from complications associated with falls. Get tips from an expert on how you can help your loved one avoid a fall.
*This telelearning session is FREE and open to all. To register, click here. Flyer for printing/posting.
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30-Minute Caregiver Break Session:
Designed Especially for Working Caregivers
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09/19/13 (Thur), 12:15 p.m.
**"Top 5 Ways to Thrive as a Family Careigver" with Evalyn Greb, LCSW
Have you thought about what things can make caregiving so difficult sometimes? This session will help you identify the things you have had to change in your life, including how you thought your future would be. Caregivers can listen to others share how they have dealt with some of the common difficulties.
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Caregiver Connections with Dr. Jamie
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"September is National Recovery Month"
(Jamie Huysman, PsyD, LCSW, CAP, CFT)*
 The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence has deemed the month of September as National Recovery Month. Recovery Month spreads the positive message that behavioral health is essential to overall health, prevention does work, treatment is effective, and people can and do recover. As a behavioral and mental health advocate, I know that many forms of addiction begin as a simple desire to relieve stress. So, it was not a great surprise to me that many forms of addictive behavior were present in the ranks of caregivers and our senior population. Click here for the entire article. Click here for the Spanish translation. *Jamie Huysman is a noted psychologist and author of several books on caregiving, including Take Your Oxygen First. He is the Vice President - Provider Relations for WellMed Medical Management.
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Caregiver SOS: On Air
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Caregiver SOS: On Air is an hour-long weekly program that airs at 6 p.m., Sundays on
NewsTalk 930-AM KLUP.
The program is sponsored and presented by the WellMed Charitable Foundation.
Click here to listen to recent shows via podcasts or download from iTunes.
Topics and Guests Featured in September
(Guests and/or topics subject to change)
- September 01 - Health Literacy- Why It's Important For Caregivers: With Elizabeth Lutz, Bexar County Health Collaborative
- September 08 - How the Aging of the World Pits Child Against Parent, Worker Against Boss and More. With Author Ted C. Fishman
- September 15 - The Skinny On Stent Procedures, Before and After Care: With Dr. Andrew West
- September 22 - Carol Steinberg, President, Alzheimer's Association of America
- September 29 - TBA
Click on Podcast Link to hear that show: ~~The Latest on Dementia in Texas: With Helen Flores, Caring Companions ~~Practical Help For Caregivers: With Mary Jackson, Cancer Therapy and Research Center ~~The Samaritan Caregiver: With Dr. Son Nguyen, WellMed at Embassy Oaks |
Caregiver SOS Resource Centers
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Caregiver SOS Centers (from the WellMed Charitable Foundation)
One Year Anniversary Celebration: Caregiver SOS
At the Lindale Senior Center, Corpus Christi
On Friday, September 6th from 1 to 4 p.m., caregivers, seniors and community leaders are invited to participate in the one-year anniversary celebration for the Caregiver SOS at the Lindale Senior Center 3135 Swantner, Corpus Christi, TX. Click here for the flyer to print. *********
September marks the beginning of new learning opportunities for caregivers at the the Caregiver SOS Resource Centers. They will be focusing on September as Senior Center Month and Falls Prevention Day on September 22.
 Examples of classes that
are starting include: the new Powerful Tools for Caregivers in the San Antonio area; the Stress-Busting Program for Family Caregivers; Diabetes Self Management and Chronic Disease Self Management, and A Matter of Balance--along with support groups, crafts and health-related activities. A resource library is also available. See the Activity Calendars below for the current schedules.
For locations and other information, go to the Caregiver SOS website. The Calendars below may be printed/posted:
Caregiver SOS/Harlingen Senior Center
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Communications Resources for the Hard of Hearing:
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Assistive listening devices make it easier for the deaf to function the hearing world. There are a variety of devices that  are used to make daily life easier for deaf people. The most common devices that most hearing people would be aware of is the device used to amplify the sound that you can hear. These can be used in addition to hearing aids and Cochlear implants that many deaf people choose to use. Deafness can be very isolating, and may limit some normal daily functions. A deaf person cannot tell when someone knocks on a door or when a smoke alarm goes off. Some of assistive listening devices can be used to help the deaf community. Many deaf people will have special smoke alarms installed in their homes with a bright flashing light. They will also have special doorbells installed with a flashing light so they can answer the door. Click here for the complete article. |
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Resources and References
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Health Insurance Marketplace: Helping Consumers
Apply & Enroll Though the Marketplace
Starting October 1, 2013, consumers in all states will be able to choose new affordable health insurance options through a new Health Insurance Marketplace. Some states ate setting up a State-based Marketplace, other states will work with the federal government in a state partnership Marketplace and the remaining states will have a Federally-facilitated Marketplace.
Click here to read the entire CMS Fact Sheet.
Deaf Websites*
Click here for a website that has a comprehensive listing of other websites containing resources and materials for the deaf and hearing impaired. *Please note: This website is very comprehensive and useful for caregivers and their care recipients with hearing issues. You are invited to explore and learn about available resources..
Seniors and Drugs
(From the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence)
The baby boomers are coming! High rates of lifetime illegal Drug use among the baby boom generation, people born between 1946 and 1964, suggest that the number of older adults using illegal drugs will increase in the next two decades. In fact, it has been predicted that by the year 2020, the number of persons needing treatment for a drug abuse and ddiction will double among persons aged 50 or older . Click here for the complete article.
Get ready for Falls Prevention Awareness Day 2013
[National Council on Aging (NCOA) Falls Free Initiative]
Download the updated Media Toolkit
NCOA has updated our Media Toolkit to publicize Falls Prevention Awareness Day (FPAD)--September 22--in your community. The kit includes a media tip sheet plus customizable press releases, media advisories, fact sheets, and more. Get the toolkit | Find more FPAD resources
Websites Especially for Working Caregivers
http://theworkingcaregiver.org/Check Out the New Social Security Website Have you been to www.socialsecurity.gov lately? Pay a visit to our redesigned homepage, and you will find more than  just an updated modern look. The homepage features popular "main menus" to help users quickly and easily find the information they seek. Included in the new design are a new top banner and footer, an updated color scheme, and a simplified layout.
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From mmLearn.org:
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NEW WEBCAST Caring for the Hateful Patient Are you caring for the sometimes hateful or  difficult patient? Someone who you would describe as a real life "Grumpy Cat?" You are not alone. Did you know that this unwelcome behavior can be related to frustration, anger, confusion, pain, fear or even medications that the patient is taking? Whether you are a professional caregiver or caring for a loved one, this difficult situation is unrewarding and can take a toll on the caregiver. Learn more about caring for a difficult patient with expert advice from Dr. Thomas Weiss. Click here to watch the video. |
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In Closing . . .
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W e hope you found this Signals newsletter both useful and informative. Please share it with caregivers that you know, your friends, and colleagues by clicking on 'Forward to a Friend'. (Since Signals is optimized for the Internet, forwarding it through your email system very seriously alters the appearance.)
Carol Zernial, Executive Director
WellMed Charitable Foundation |
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