Caring for someone with a chronic illness like MS can be deeply satisfying. Spouses and partners, family, and friends can be drawn more closely together by their shared concerns and collaborative efforts. But caregiving can also be physically and emotionally exhausting, particularly for the primary caregiver. While this is most often a partner or spouse, the primary caregiver may also be an adult child, parent, or friend. Whoever you are, remember that paying attention to your own health and well-being is essential to being able to care for someone else.
While younger children sometimes assume major responsibilities when a parent has disability due to MS, they should never be called upon to provide a parent’s personal care. Call the National MS Society (1-800-344-4867) if you need help identifying caregiving resources in your community.
A regular monthly resource for caregivers throughout the United States is offered by the Veterans Administration, regardless of client/family veteran status:
Family Caregiver Support and Education Monthly Conference Call
What: Caregivers will have the opportunity to connect with other caregivers and share their unique stories.
Educational topics/speakers and resources will also be presented!
When: 4th Monday of each Month
Time: 2-3 PM Eastern Time
Sponsored by: Veterans Affairs
To Access the call: 1-800-767-1750, enter Access Code 43157 & press the #
For more information contact: Margaret.Kazmierski@va.gov
For more information about caregivers, click here.