Faith In Caregiving
Discoveries from numerous studies have shed light on the impact of caregiving, which can be incredibly draining for caregivers physically, emotionally, and cognitively. The lack of time or boundaries and the emotional toll of caring take a toll. However, recent research challenges the long-held belief that caregiving is inherently harmful to caregivers. In fact, studies conducted by Johns Hopkins and the University of Southern California have shown that caregiving does not have negative effects on caregivers. Additionally, research from the University at Buffalo has found that expressing appreciation towards caregivers enhances their overall experience. Furthermore, research from Universität Basel has demonstrated that caregivers tend to live longer compared to those who do not provide care for others.
When I came upon this information, I was honestly surprised. I have provided support for family caregivers for decades. The majority of family caregivers struggle. They feel isolated and unsupported. The statistics are grim. Sixty three percent of family caregivers actually become seriously ill or die before the person they are caring for passes. After learning about this study, I did more research. What I learned surprised me, on one level. Of course, it makes sense.
Human connection is vital to our happiness and well-being. When we are connected to others and contribute our skills, talents, or care to those in need, our sense of purpose and joy are amplified. A study published in NeuroImage has even uncovered our natural inclination for caregiving. Research from Child Development has indicated that the care we receive in our early years greatly influences our well-being later in life. In summary, caring is an essential aspect of the human experience, as our instinct for belonging and affiliation contributes to the positive effects of caregiving.
Given the significance of caregiving within communities, it is important for communities, churches and employers to offer crucial support. This has benefits for the entire community. Programs that support family caregivers can help employers can attract and retain valuable employees who are dedicated to caregiving. Moreover, caregiving equips individuals with a wide range of transferable skills, from empathy and follow-through to attention to detail and leadership. Supporting family caregivers who provide care is mutually beneficial for both the caregivers, the employer and the community.
Overall, caregiving plays a critical role in fostering a strong society. Caregivers not only provide support to those in need, such as the elderly and the young, but also contribute to the overall fabric of our community. Resilient communities are built on trust and support, where people can rely on each other and lend a helping hand during challenging times. These difficult times serve as a reminder of our interconnectedness and emphasize the significance of caring, not just caregiving, for our collective and individual well-being.
Faith in caregiving is essential in creating a culture of volunteerism and support for the family caregiver. With the support of our community and churches, we can create care team partner support groups to provide practical assistance and emotional support for caregivers and their care recipients. As we face a public health crisis, with more seniors than youth and a shortage of direct care workers, it is crucial for us to come together and support those who are caring for others.
Caregiver Relief is actively working towards this goal by starting a grassroots effort to help churches and communities establish care team partner support groups. By promoting faith in caregiving, we can create a strong network of caregivers who are able to provide the necessary care and support for our aging population.
The research shows that providing ongoing support, allowing family caregivers regular and consistent respite allows the caregivers to continue to provide the best possible care for their family members. With this information,Caregiver Relief has created the concept of developing a Care Team Partner approach to care.
Churches are struggling to find the right balance. They do not know how to adequately meet the needs of the family caregiver. Caregiver Relief has created a program that will help family caregivers get ongoing practical support throughout their caregiving journey.
Our concept approaches the need to support family caregivers by providing practical support as well as spiritual support.
The family caregiver is the single largest pillar of the long term care system. Without them, it would all fall apart. Right now, the average family caregiver provides over $600 million of unpaid care. The average caregiving journey is between 6 to 8 years. The typical primary caregiver provides care alone. They may have many extended family members and uninvolved siblings that provide little to no support. Our Faith in Caregiving program teaches the care recipient, the primary caregiver and the community a team approach to care.
The goal of our Faith in Caregiver program is to support and uplift our caregivers. We promote working towards building a stronger community through faith in caregiving. So remember, be kind to your caregiver. They are doing an incredible job. Let's all show them the appreciation they deserve!
Faith in caregiving is a powerful force that can transform not only the lives of those receiving care, but also the lives of caregivers themselves. We must recognize and promote the importance of faith in caregiving within our communities, churches, and organizations.
Care teams are an essential component of providing quality care for individuals in need. These teams consist of dedicated individuals who provide practical assistance and emotional support to family caregivers and their care recipients. Care teams not only benefit those receiving care, but also create a sense of community and support for caregivers, who often feel overwhelmed and isolated in their role.
Through our faith in caregiving, we can come together to support these care teams and ensure that no caregiver feels alone in their journey. By establishing care team partner support groups within our communities, we can provide resources, education, and a sense of belonging for caregivers. These support groups can also serve as a platform for individuals to share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs with others who understand and empathize.
Moreover, faith in caregiving encourages volunteerism and compassion within our communities. It reminds us to prioritize human connection and service towards others. By actively involving ourselves in caregiving, whether through volunteering or supporting caregivers in our lives, we can contribute to the well-being of our society and create a culture of care and support.
In conclusion, faith in caregiving is vital in addressing the growing need for caregivers within our aging population. It allows us to build stronger communities, support those who are caring for others, and promote volunteerism and compassion. Let us continue to foster this faith in caregiving within our communities and organizations, and create a brighter future for all caregivers and care recipients. So let's keep promoting faith in caregiving, with the support of our communities and churches, we can make a positive impact on the lives of caregivers and their loved ones. Remember to show your appreciation for caregivers, as they exemplify the power of faith in caregiving every day.
Faith in Caregiving- Finding God's Love and Care
Caregiving and Faith - God has Blessed You With Special Traits
The Need for Faith Along the Caregiving Journey
Faith in Action Lord Hear My Prayer
Self Care for Caregivers Includes Accepting We are Human
Contact us if you would like more information on our Faith In Caregiving program