Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/161202
RETIREMENT | Special Advertising Section FIND QUALITY TIME WITH MOM & DAD with the help of Community Living Alliance Feel like it's always chore time when you see your parents? Just leave the housekeeping, errands, meal prep, home care, transportation and more to us. We're a local nonprofit with 25 years of experience helping people stay home and stay independent. Invest Your Time Wisely in Retirement By Theresa Fishler Are there too few hours in the day to meet all the demands on your time? You are not alone. Achieving a "work-life balance" can be challenging under the best of circumstances. According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, there are about 44 million Americans providing care to a loved one with a chronic illness or condition. An estimated 59-75 percent of these caregivers are women. Among caregivers age 50-64 years old, about 60 percent are working full- or part-time. If you are working and planning for your own retirement while caring for your aging parents, remember to take care of yourself, too. Studies show that caregivers with support systems are more likely to be healthier and less stressed. Your Employee Assistant Program (EAP), support groups, friends or family can provide extra help when you need it. Talk with a financial advisor about retirement options. Whether directly providing care for your parents or arranging care from professionals, planning ahead for your own long-term care and those of your loved ones is essential. It might be difficult for your parents to accept help, but if you know in advance what their preferences are, you'll be better prepared to help them if the need arises. To begin learning about what is important to your parents, ask them: • What would make your days easier? Find out today how we can help you! www.clanet.org • info@clanet.org (608) 242-8335 • What kind of help will you accept from me or other family members? • Would you be willing to accept help from non-family members? • Do you have your wishes documented? As a caregiver, knowing what is important to your parents, planning ahead and establishing a strong support system will be very helpful. Caregiving can be challenging, but also a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with parents or other loved ones through all stages of their lives. Theresa Fishler, MSSW, CISW is the director of program operations with Community Living Alliance, Inc. Visit clanet.org for more information. september 2013 | bravamagazine.com 65