Replacing the Term ‘Caregiver’ with ‘Care Partner’ Helps Preserve Dignity
Dear Carol: My cognitively sharp, independent mother is healthy other than some early-stage macular degeneration. She graciously gave up driving and often uses ride-shares to get around. Mom’s comfortable with my taking her for her eye treatments and other medical appointments, but it angers her when clinic staff automatically determine that I’m her “caregiver,” so they talk to me rather than to her. She understands that they don’t intend to slight her, but she wants to be viewed as independent even if she sometimes has me along. How would you approach this? – PA
Dear PA: Sadly, this happens to many older adults who go out accompanied by a family member or friend. Most medical personnel are pushed for time, so if they see a person who could be a caregiver, many will jump to the conclusion…
Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories. “For anyone having to walk the last segments of life with a loved one, read this.” …Delores
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