Caregivers Share Voices, Look for Solutions
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2007-04-17 13:19:24.813273-04:00
Pensacola's Joseph Morgan, an experienced caregiver who has cared for his wife full-time since 2002, has some simple thoughts about the long-term care system in Florida.
"There are a lot of people out there who need help but just don't have the finances or know where they can get resources," said Morgan, 81. "A lot of times it's hard to find the information and resources you need because it's all so scattered."
Collective dialogue is the foundation of AARP's Divided We Fail campaign. In our effort to lead positive social change, we're bringing voices like Morgan's together with others to amplify the issues that matter most, specifically health care costs and long-term financial security. Long-term care fits into both categories, and is particularly important in Florida, where the 65+ population is 2.8 million and growing. If you have a story, we'd love to hear it.
We know that if anyone understands the need for long-term care reform, it's those who generously care for their loved ones. Those are the real experts. Joseph Morgan is one such expert, and he graciously shared his perspective at AARP's "Caregiver Speakout" on March 19 in Pensacola, illustrating his vision for an improved long-term care system.
Morgan believes the state's current system, which is fragmented and confusing for many, could be more efficient. He says caregivers have significant emotional needs, but are sometimes forgotten members of the process, and believes respite time is essential for caregivers.
"A lot of people would love to keep their spouses or dependents at home," said Morgan, who has been married to 60 years to his wife, Carol. "Unfortunately, when they try to take care of them by themselves, usually (the caregiver) ends up going first."
Two years ago, Carol's health declined and Morgan thought he had lost his wife for good. He made plans for her funeral and arranged to donate her brain before cremation. At the time, Carol was completely incontinent and couldn't feed or bathe herself.
"We thought she was gone, but since then I've been fortunate to have her at home," said Morgan, a retired Navy aviator. "Being able to keep her at home in her own environment has really saved her life."
Morgan was one of 50 current and former caregivers to participate in the Pensacola "Speakout" event, the first in a series scheduled this year around the state. Caregivers can share their thoughts at a similar forum in Orlando in June and possibly Sarasota in the fall. AARP is also involved in a pair of "Fearless Caregiver" conferences in Miami (March) and Fort Lauderdale (May 23).
Long-term care affects millions in Florida, and AARP believes the state can do a better job of supporting families. After all, families provide 80% of care for frail elders. As Morgan's story illustrates, providing care for loved ones can take its toll. AARP believes the state can do a better job of supporting caregivers.
Our voices give us "The power to make it better." and AARP wants to use that power to improve health care costs and long-term financial security.
If you'd like to share your story, call us at 1-866-595-7678, fill out this online form or visit www.dividedwefail.com for more information.
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