How to Care for Caregivers
When caregivers were asked to identify the biggest challenge they face, their answer was overwhelming: time
By Diana Jordan, Assistant Digital Media Editor, Media/Communications
Knowledge is power but for Angela Smith, former caregiver to her husband with a spinal cord injury, knowledge is empowering. Caregiving is a skill that requires a blend of compassion, patience, and a great deal of expertise. Often overlooked, the role of caregivers involves much more than simple tasks such as preparing a meal or helping someone into bed. 53% of family caregivers also hold full-time jobs, necessitating a delicate balance between their caregiving responsibilities and professional duties.
Caregivers not only perform hands-on tasks but also forge emotional connections with those under their care. However, while providing round-the-clock physical and emotional support, caregivers often neglect their own well-being, with 43% reporting sleeping difficulties and 36% experiencing feelings of depression.
Grounded in research to identify caregivers’ overlooked and unique needs, Kessler Foundation’s team—with support from generous donors—built two support programs specifically for SCI caregivers, formulated with the input of caregivers themselves via focus groups. Whether individuals are new to caregiving or experts in supporting someone with a SCI, trained peer mentors from the Foundation offer free guidance on key topics such as managing caregiving responsibilities, accessing local, state, and national resources, and much more.
"As a mentor, you're not just providing emotional support but also practical tips," explains Smith, the program‘s coordinator, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the mentorship program. "We received training to prepare ourselves for various caregiving situations because no two experiences are the same."
In addition to the peer mentoring program, Kessler Foundation can also offer support from spinal cord injury clinicians through our Community Connect program. Facilitated by professionals including physical therapists, and occupational therapists, Community Connect supports caregivers as they learn the specific skills required to care for someone who has a spinal cord injury. This program provides in-home training for New Jersey residents and offers online education and support to individuals across the United States. Training topics cover a range of essential skills, including skincare, bowel and bladder management, respiratory care, bed mobility, and more.
Reflecting on her own experience, Smith remarks, "Caregiving involves far more work than people realize. There are numerous secondary complications that individuals with SCI may encounter, meaning that caregivers may find themselves taking care of tasks beyond the basics, such as accompanying them to medical appointments or administering medication. Caregiving can become synonymous with one's identity."
To connect with an experienced peer or volunteer to be a mentor, send a message to [email protected].
Those interested in training through the Community Connect program are encouraged to contact [email protected].
