MHS marks National Caregiver Week

Do you know that November is National Home Care Month and National Care Giver Week? At Marianas Health Services Inc., National Caregiver Week is celebrated from Nov. 17 to 21.

This month has been designated each year to thank, support and honor the more than 50,000 family caregivers who currently provide “free” care giving services to homebound families in their homes. On Saipan alone, there are more than 5,000 estimated “informal” (unpaid) caregivers.

“Chances are you may be one of the many who is providing this support for a loved one,” said MHS in a statement. “Caregivers play a significant role in the health care delivery system, especially during the times after discharge from the hospital due to an operation, accident or illness. The time has come to acknowledge the influence these caregivers play in providing for the care and advocacy of our loved ones. Only by being educated consumers and remembering our need to care for ourselves as well, will we be best able to continue to be effective caregivers.”

MHS sponsored the first 10 Caregivers Recognition Week last year in November 2007, addressing the specific needs of the caregiver, and acknowledging the significant role caregivers play in the CNMI.

“It takes a special someone to be a caregiver. Not everyone is capable, or does it well. Most often, one person alone carries most of the responsibility and burden. It is rare that the primary caregiver’s expectations of other family members providing an equal share in the time and work required occurs. “Unfortunately, it frequently remains true that “one mother can take care of 10 children, but 10 children can not take care of one parent.” Assistance and relief expected from siblings and other extended family members is not always possible due to different life styles, work commitments and actual geography.

“Sometimes, caregiver responsibilities can become too challenging. It is important to ask for help or seek professional guidance. MHS offer assistance on issues such as depression management, physical fitness programs, and financial planning, among others.

“To our MHS caregivers, we salute you for all your perseverance, commitment, and love you provide each day to our patients—your mom, dad, grandma, grandpa and so on.”

For more information on activities throughout the month of November go to www.marianashealth.com or call 233-4646.[B][I] (PR)[/I][/B]