4. Arrange for backup. Identify at least one other person who can provide care in the event that you become ill, injured or must be gone for an extended period. Keep your backup informed about the health challenges and needs of the senior.
5. Find other resources. Many complementary services are available to seniors and their caregivers in your local area.
6. Seek financial and legal services. Gather the financial and legal documents for the senior in your care, and consult with an attorney and/or financial advisor to ensure that the senior's financial and legal matters are handled appropriately.
7. Let others help you. You don't have to do it by yourself. When friends, neighbors, family members or church congregants offer to pitch in, take them up on their offers.
"It is imperative that caregivers take care of themselves, which is why SCAN Health Plan has implemented programs aimed at caring for the caregiver," said Tom Lescault, president of SCAN Health Plan Arizona. "We know that caregivers have higher stress levels, risk of depression and chances of developing health problems themselves. It is our goal to help make their loads a little lighter."
About SCAN Health Plan
For more than 30 years, SCAN Health Plan has been focusing on the unique needs of people with Medicare and today is the fourth-largest nonprofit Medicare Advantage Plan in the United States. The company currently serves 110,000 members in Southern California. In Arizona it offers a Medicare Advantage Plan in Maricopa County. Further information may be obtained at scanhealthplan.com.
