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As the population ages, many American adults are grappling with an unprecedented social, cultural, economic and personal revolution as they transition into their primary caregiver role for their aging parents. Almost half of adults age 45-55 have children under the age of 21 as well as aging parents. According to a 2007 AARP study, the estimated economic value of family caregiving in the United States topped $350 billion in 2006. In South Dakota the estimated value of this care is $880 million. The true impact of caring for a loved one isn’t just a financial matter, it’s an emotional one.

Wednesday April 2, 2008 SDPB Television will air the PBS special “Caring for your Parents,” an eye-opening event drawing much-needed attention to the realities of caring for elderly parents.

Through deeply personal stories of five families facing these issues head-on, the broadcast highlights the struggles to keep parents at home, tensions between siblings, complex financial decision and the drama of life and death. In the end, the documentary contends successful caregiving requires one primary ingredient-love.

The 90 minute broadcast airs at 8CT/7MT, followed by a half-hour follow-up discussion offering concrete advice and guidance on how to start the conversation–often the most difficult step in caregiving. Check your local listings for station information or visit www.sdpb.org

This special is a complement to the newly updated AARP book entitled Caring for Your Parents, The Complete Family Guide Practical Advice You Can Trust From the Experts at AARP, by AARP Publications Editor-in Chief Hugh Delehanty and AARP’s Livable Communities Strategy Director Elinor Ginzler, with a foreword by Mary Pipher  The updated edition will be available to members for a 35% discount! Visit www.aarp.org/books for details.