November Blog

Dear Friends,

As I am sure you know from the media the flu in Virginia has reached epidemic proportions.   According to the Virginia Department of Health It is still expected that the vaccine for H1N1 will be available for all groups in December.  I encourage you to track information on flu by using the following site, www.flu.gov.   For example, you can find local community, public health department and school sites and determine your current eligibility.  I am attaching a chart that Fr. Tuck sent to me which I think will be helpful to you in identifying the differences among  Cold, H1N1 and Seasonal Flu. It also has some helpful advice on how you can support your recovery from flu.  (Click on this link to see the chart:  http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=0Anr3y3Aa_SJkdHRvQ2R4b3hacWFXZDVZNE1xYmI2VkE&hl=en)

November is Family Caregiver’s month.  On November 18^th we will be honoring our Family Caregivers at the noon mass with a luncheon following.  The National Family Caregivers Association www.thefamilycaregiver.org ,   suggests that caregivers live by the following 4 messages:

1. Believe in Yourself.  They suggest that you follow your instincts in making decisions for your loved one.  Believing in yourself includes trying to have a positive attitude because this impacts on the actions you take. In addition, they suggest  knowing your own strengths and weaknesses gives you the confidence to say “no” and when to seek help.  In order to feel more in control they also suggest you plan in so far as you are able. For example, having the legal paperwork necessary for making important medical decisions. And finally it is suggested that you gather as much information as you can.  The internet may be helpful in gathering information on your loved ones condition.  Also, knowing the procedures in work environments that you may encounter like the doctor’s office or the ER will prove very helpful. 

2.  Protect your health.  Taking good care of yourself is a necessity.  If you’re not in good health, you won’t have the emotional or physical strength to help your loved one.  Family caregivers are at particular risk for stress and depression.  Studies show that chronic stress can accelerate aging.  Exercise, even if it’s around the living room or up and downstairs is good exercise.  Eating nutritious meals and taking a vitamin supplement every day will help.

3.  Reach out for help.  Family care giving is not a one person job.  Asking for help is a sign of strength.  The Family Caregivers Association publishes a brochure called, “Share the Caring” for caregivers and those that want to help.

4.  Speak up for your rights.  Speak up for your rights and more help for your self and your loved one. Adequate education and training for the skills you need for care giving, adequate health insurance if you are not getting it from your employer and financial support to protect your future.

You may know family caregivers in our faith community .  Decide how you can help them.  If you don’t know, ask.  Some might like nothing more than a friendly visit.   Care giving can be very isolating.

Happy Thanksgiving,

Georgine