March 15, 2016

A Caregiver’s Legacy

The challenges of being a family caregiver were first given national awareness in the mid 1990’s by former first Lady Nancy Reagan.  It was at that time when former President Ronald Reagan made his now infamous weekly radio address to share his diagnosis in 1994.  He said, “Unfortunately as Alzheimer’s disease progresses, the family bears a heavy burden. I only wish there was some way I could spare Nancy from this painful experience. When the time comes I am confident that with your help she will face it with faith and courage.”

As Sherri Snelling, contributor with Next Avenue Magazine says – “And so she did.”  Mrs. Reagan was the trailblazer for what many of us have come to experience ourselves.  In a recent article at FORBES.com, Ms. Snelling mentions that Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, fatal brain disorder that damages and ultimately destroys brain cells and today affects more than 5 million Americans.  While most of know these numbers are staggering, what we don’t always know, is what to do when it happens to someone we love!

The UAMS Schmieding Home Caregiver training program has stepped up to this challenge by providing FREE family caregiver workshops. These workshops are focused on assisting the family member who needs encouragement and support while learning basic skills to deal and care for their loved one.  Whether it’s learning how to bathe them, using assistive devices or simply learning how to cope with the many challenges of the disease process, we are here to help.

Two different workshops are offered at various times throughout the year.  One is on the basic caregiver skills such as hands on demonstration of assistive devices, learning how to transfer from chair to wheelchair or practical skills for skin care and nutrition. The second is focused specifically for Alzheimer’s Care.  Communication techniques, understanding behaviors and safety measures are just a few of the topics covered in the latter program.

The Reagan’s both left a legacy that will benefit so many.  The Ronald and Nancy Reagan Research Institute, an affiliate of the National Alzheimer’s Association was created by them in 1995.  Its goal is to accelerate research to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Let us also continue to honor Nancy Reagan by remembering her wish – “that as a nation we do not rest until we find a cure for Alzheimer’s.”

Call our office at 870-207-7600 to learn more about these Family Caregiver Workshops or to find out when they are offered in your area.