Transcript: Chat With AARP President Rob Romasco on Caregiving

Comment From Carole: My husband has Alzheimer’s. It started three years ago. He's 79 and in good health; I'm 74, in not so good health. I'm the only caregiver, and am having a hard time handling the situation. Any idea or comments would be helpful.

Rob Romasco: Carole, making sure that you’re caring for yourself in the midst of caring for others is important!

Here is an article with some tips and points to remember in the midst of your caregiving journey.

Also, think about exploring your options to bring someone in to help (a friend, a family member, a neighbor, or a part-time home care worker) just so you can get a break every so often.

If you are interested in finding a professional home care worker, here is a great article on how to start that process and things to keep in mind.

Comment From Guest: What is the best way to reach all those caregivers that are either in denial or who don't identify as a caregiver (especially men) to make them aware of tools and services that can help them?

Rob Romasco: It's very common for people to not identify that they're providing caregiving support. AARP has a great caregiving resource center at www.aarp.org/caregiving for all types of information and tools.

AARP also has a new blogger who's focusing solely on men and caregiving named Chuck Ross – you can read all his posts online.

Comment From DiDionna: I am trying to assist my daughter's mother-in-law, who is suffering through the final stages of MS. I am looking for information to supply to her husband on disability benefits. Can you refer me to a website or a publication for assistance for them?

Rob Romasco: DiDionna, the options depend a lot on her age and where she lives.

I would recommend taking a look at the resources via Eldercare Locator as a starting place – eldercare.gov or 800-677-1116.

You can also check out the Centers for Independent Living. This is a link to a map where you can locate the closest center.

Also, relating to other benefits that she may be eligible for – check out Benefits Checkup.

Next: How can I best connect with my mom, whom I fear may be feeling isolated? »