Cerebral Palsy is a far-reaching and long-term health condition that touches the lives of over 17 million people globally. As a collective term for a series of movement disorders, Cerebral Palsy primarily disrupts muscle coordination and impedes body movement. Even the most basic daily tasks can become monumental challenges for individuals living with Cerebral Palsy. Among these, seemingly simple functions such as sleeping often turn into uphill battles not just for the patients but also for their caregivers. Proper sleep management as part of the carer's routine is undeniably a critical com ..read more

The event of a loved one being diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy is a transformative experience for families. This shift is profound, impacting not just the individual diagnosed, but echoing throughout the entire family structure, setting off a series of complex challenges that must be confronted. It transcends the emotional impact, extending to significant changes in family roles, responsibilities, and dynamics. This guide is designed to assist families in navigating these changes. The aim is to not solely understand the psychological ripple effects of a Cerebral Palsy diagnosis on the wider f ..read more

One health complication common enough among individuals with Cerebral Palsy (CP) to merit serious attention is seizures. Driven by irregular electrical activity in the brain, seizures are diverse in their severity and how often they occur. These episodes can be harrowing to witness and potentially harmful. Thus, gaining a grasp over understanding seizures, their indicators, and crucial management techniques can be a game-changer when it comes to taking care of your loved one with CP. This article is meant to equip caregivers with a comprehensive understanding of seizures in CP patients while ..read more

Each of us is  a collection of our shared memories and past experiences. Life's precious and irreplaceable moments that shape who we are — as children, as adults, as parents — are safeguarded in our minds. But imagine if you could no longer access this treasured store of memories. A reality caused by a devastating condition known as Alzheimer’s disease, affecting an estimated 50 million people worldwide. Being a caregiver for someone diagnosed with this form of dementia is an immense undertaking, laden with emotional distress and unique challenges. By gaining an understanding of how Alz ..read more

I care for my mother, a Veteran with Alzheimer’s and ovarian cancer.  My most memorable caregiving moment Advocating for my mother in all aspects (medical, financial, home building) even though I had no experience in those areas. What I wish I could tell myself as I first started this journey.  Don't be so hard on yourself. This is the first time you’re doing this, and you’re doing the best you know how. The resource that has meant the most to me VA Caregiver Support Program My Story Porche'H's journey as a caregiver began with the moment when her mother's neurologist shared that her ..read more

The crucial role and responsibility of a family caregiver extend far beyond providing primary physical care and emotional support. For scores of individuals, it also involves grappling with the ominous financial repercussions that follow the diagnosis of a loved one with a condition requiring considerable medical treatment and recovery time, such as a fracture. Caregiving for someone with a fracture in adults can fast become a high-priced operation, particularly due to steep medical care costs, potential home alterations, and the necessity for extensive financial planning. This article aims ..read more

As a family caregiver, the responsibilities go beyond the realm of lending a hand with everyday tasks. You're also entrusted with paving a brighter and more secure future for your loved ones. The equation becomes even more complex and difficult when the individual you're caring for is an immigrant, unfamiliar with the workings and rules of your society. Their integration into the societal fabric depends significantly on their education and career opportunities and advancement. My role as a social worker and caregiver has given me insights on how to extend support in these key areas, and I sh ..read more

Assuming the role of a caregiver for a loved one who has undergone joint replacement surgery comes with its own set of challenges, physically, emotionally, and mentally. The responsibility can sometimes be overwhelming especially when it's a post-operation scenario where care needs to be explicitly meticulous. With this article, the spotlight is on the very real issue of caregiver burnout, unmasking its causes, identification, and strategies to manage stress in order to prevent burnout. Equipped with the right knowledge and tools, you can deliver superior support to your loved one and ensure ..read more

Crafting a comfortable, supportive post-surgery environment for a family member is an important task filled with rewards and challenges. This caregiving job requires a dedication that is invaluable in offering emotional support and rendering practical help. Yet, it also leads to a heavy shadow that lurks behind this noble role – caregiver fatigue. Less debated and widely under-acknowledged, this strain has significant potential to influence your health and the level of caregiving you can afford. However, you may counter this daunting fatigue and make the most out of the rewarding aspects of ..read more

Relocating with a child with a disability can bring with it a range of expenses, concerns, and stressors. All these factors can lead to difficulty settling into a new environment, and feelings of displacement and insecurity in a young life. Fortunately, with a few simple plans in place, family caregivers can take steps to reduce the stress of relocation.  Learning Objectives  To understand the challenge family caregivers face in dealing with transitions and roles when looking after a child with a disability.  To learn how to communicate sensitive topics such as divorce and c ..read more