‘P lease put on your oxygen mask before helping others.” That is a phrase we’re all familiar with onboard an aircraft, but I believe it is just as relevant in the world of family caregiving.
November is National Family Caregivers Month, and as we take time to recognize those who provide this essential service, I want to encourage us to ask the question, “Who cares for the caregiver?”
My husband, Joe, and I care for our two children, Jessica, 14, and Andrew, 10, both of whom have autism and significant challenges. We love our children as much as any parent, but I’d be the first to admit that we are very tired at times.
Providing care for a loved one with a disability can be incredibly hard work, and it often involves a lot of physical and emotional demands on your time. We need to recognize that those providing the care need help, too.
To do that, we must take another look at the types and availability of respite services for caregivers in New Jersey. For instance, respite that provides overnight breaks for parents or the chance to spend time with a spouse, partner or other children in the family rejuvenates caregivers — and it’s what carries them forward.
I hope this November we can begin a dialogue about how to expand and improve services to support family caregivers.
Diane Mirabelli
Westfield
Volunteer
The Arc of New Jersey
The Arc of Union County