For 20 years, Aging Resources of Central Iowa has celebrated families that are caring for an aging parent, ill spouse or other “family” member during the month of November. A simple “thank you for all you do” to aid someone in remaining independent really doesn’t come close to the respect and honor you deserve.
July 2019, the Iowa State Legislature passed the CARE Act to acknowledge family caregivers who are supporting a family member that is being released from the hospital.
The title CARE stands for Caregiver Advise, Record, Enable.
The CARE Act requires hospitals to offer Iowans an opportunity to:
• Record the name of a family member as their caregiver upon admission to the hospital.
• Keep that caregiver informed of plans when their family member will be released from the hospital.
• Discuss with the caregiver their abilities and limitations to provide needed cares.
• Provide education and instruction to the caregiver who will be providing support in the home.
Supporting family caregivers is a priority that needs to be recognized more than one month in a year, but November is a great month to give thanks for all they do.
Express your appreciation to a caregiver the next time you see one or pat yourself on the back if you are one.
For more information about the CARE Act or providing care to an older adult or an adult with a disability, contact Aging Resources of Central Iowa at 515-255-1310 or 1-800-747-5352 or visit agingresources.com.