ABSTRACT
With the aging of the population and the evolving health care system, it is more important than ever before that individuals be actively involved in selfcare activities and that individuals and families receive education and support to help them cope with chronic illness. This article describes a model family support program which operates within a hospital setting to provide information, education, support, and respite services. This model is based on an extensive research base which underscores the value of this model both for the individuals and families involved and for the health care system.
Subject(s)
Caregivers/psychology , Chronic Disease/nursing , Family/psychology , Models, Nursing , Self-Help Groups/organization & administration , Social Support , Caregivers/education , Home Nursing , Humans , Respite CareABSTRACT
A program is described through which families become acquainted with the issues, legal terminology, and resources for planning to provide and finance care to neurologically impaired elders. A survey of 68 participating families indicated over 90% had taken one or more planning actions following the workshop, including developing a specific plan for providing and financing services and developing a power-of-attorney for decision-making. Implications for other programs are discussed.
Subject(s)
Dementia/economics , Family , Health Services for the Aged/economics , Long-Term Care/legislation & jurisprudence , Aged , Health Education , Humans , Long-Term Care/economics , Models, TheoreticalABSTRACT
Families caring for a frail elderly loved one at home face numerous problems and crises and often become incapacitated, sometimes breaking down completely, in their efforts to cope. Research indicates that education, information and referral services, and support and respite services can significantly improve coping abilities and relieve care givers' burden. During the past eight years, the Neurological Sciences Center's Education & Family Support Services (E&FSS) of Good Samaritan Hospital and Medical Center, Portland, OR, has become a leader in developing these services for families. E&FSS programs include Helping You Care; Caregiver Series; Caregiver Support Group; POPS; Polishing Our People Skills; Neurological Coalition; Caregiver's Respite Program; Legal/Financial Planning class; and the E&FSS Resource Center. The program also provides public education in the form of three major programs each year, videotapes, and fact sheets. The program benefits the facility by providing direct revenues, referring clients to medical services and physicians, and enhancing the facility's image in the community.
