In this episode, Dr. Lakelyn concludes a three-part series on caregiving relationships with a discussion on what it’s like to care for a relative who isn’t a spouse or parent, along with the unique challenges that face those caring for a non-relative. Dr. Lakelyn talks with fellow gerontologist and caregiver April Ibarra who has cared for a number of family members including her aunt, Joy.
Episode highlights include:
- Challenges of caring for non-immediate relatives
- Differences in caring for someone outside the family
- Important considerations for non-traditional caregiving relationships
- Emotional burden among the different types of caregivers
- Resources to support caregivers along their journey
Helpful links from this episode:
- Caregiving in the U.S. 2020 Report
-Aging with April: www.aprilibarra.com
Article: Solving Family Conflict
- Journal article: “Effects of Relationship Type on Quality of Life in Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment and the Informal Caregivers”
- Live chat: Legal Aspects of Estate Planning with an Elder Law Attorney
- Find your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA)
- Live chat: Finding Joy in Caregiving with Loretta Veney
- Article: Laughter is the Best Medicine
- Guide: Home Care Solutions
To learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com.
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00:00 - Intro
01:11 - Who are non-immediate family members?
02:25 - Introducing April Ibarra
03:40 - April’s caregiving experience
10:39 - Assuming the caregiving role
12:18 - Becoming more dependent on family
14:03 - Advantages to being non-immediate
15:24 - Sometimes communication is easier
18:17 - Giving ownership to the person being cared for
20:44 - Prioritizing what’s important
22:00 - Managing legal affairs
25:28 - Navigating family dynamics
31:12 - Pacing yourself
32:48 - Emotional strain with caregiving
38:28 - Plug into your resources
40:41 - Laughter is the best medicine!
41:56 - Spending quality time together
43:17 - Outro
