The holiday season can be an especially stressful time for caregivers.
Judy Nicholson, a volunteer for AARP and Lexington resident, said resources provided by AARP helped her assess and address needs and create a plan after her husband Craig’s surgery.
"You have to take care of your loved one, you have to be prepared for long-term sickness and even death," Nicholson acknowledged. "It takes a lot out of the person. So make sure that you also take care of yourself."
It is estimated nearly 1 million Kentuckians are adult caregivers and the number is expected to increase as baby boomers age. A new Pew Research Center Survey found a majority of Americans say they want to live until they are at least 80 years old, and on average, most say they want to live to be 91.
Nicholson added the guide can provide information on topics most people aren’t familiar with until they become caregivers.
"Such as power of attorneys, and any special documents that you may not think about, that you need," Nicholson outlined.
AARP has developed a financial workbook to help families sort through estate planning, paying for health care and other factors related to caregiving.
