The Age of the Future
Author
Thomas Wiest
CEO, Aspirience Home Care
Often, we speak at meetings for numerous non-profit groups, social events, support group gatherings, etc. One of the most popular topics we are asked about is the aging population growth and what could be expected by it. One introductory and defining sentence to this topic is the fact, that by 2030, the number of Minnesotans 65 and older will double, making up one-quarter of the state’s population.
Because of this aging surge, seniors are going to want to be able to live independently and stay in their own homes as long as possible. To make sure this happens families often need help. This is especially true for adult children who are called on to take care of their elderly parents.
Half of the people who are caring for seniors in the state are their adult children. They take turns grocery shopping, cleaning and bringing in meals, keeping a journal in their parents’ home to help keep track of what’s been done. I was talking with one member of a large family and she said, “I can’t imagine how small families do it.” “It’s practically impossible for us at times.”
Even Senator Amy Klobuchar, D-Minnesota, announced that she will propose legislation this fall that she believes will make life easier for family caregivers and seniors. One bill is aimed at providing tax relief and better information to family members who care for elderly relatives. The second would help protect people who buy long-term care insurance policies.
Now, families can claim a dependent-care credit on their taxes only if their elderly relative lives in their home. Klobuchar would expand the law to allow families to claim a $1,200 credit for the expense of caring for an elderly relative no matter where they live.
The bill also would set up a national care giving resource center offering information about the best ways to help older relatives and how to get it.
As noted above, by 2030, the number of Minnesotans 65 and older will double, making up one-quarter of the population. Klobuchar said that she also wants to boost the resources of the National Family Caregiver Support Program, which was established in 2001. With more funding, that program could make life easier for both seniors and their families. It might offer fast access to information about programs that help older people remain in their homes as they grow frail - programs such as respite care and home modification help to keep homes handicapped accessible.
Care giving can be an overwhelming responsibility for many families and it can be an exhausting, tiring, endless job, and it doesn’t get any easier over time. As a result of these responsibilities, many caregivers develop physical problems and mental health problems. Often, becoming the recipient of the services they once provided to others.
Every single caregiver I have spoken to or know has told me the same thing, they need one simple thing, and that’s time.
It’s good to know, Aspirience Home Care can help you with home care and the time you need.