Social Wellness Support
Man holding elderly woman’s hands
The word “wellness” is often prefaced with an adjective: for example, physical wellness, financial wellness, or social wellness. If you are unfamiliar with the term, social wellness involves having meaningful relationships and creating a support system that includes family members and friends. This kind of care may include fostering your own social wellness or helping a loved one you support in your social network. No matter the reason for the care, being in such a role may sometimes feel intimidating or overwhelming and discovering resources can be one of the most powerful ways to ease these feelings. In this piece, we share resources that may help you feel more comfortable in a caregiving role.
Your Employee Assistance Program
Your workplace may offer assistance as a benefit and can guide you in determining next steps. You may have access to counseling to help sort through your feelings, put things in perspective, and identify the next best step. They can also point you to other resources in your area such as referrals for eldercare and dependent care. Seek out your human resources department for more information.
Community Assistance
The purpose of most community agencies is to provide services to individuals who need help. Remember that you are entitled to these public services – you’ve earned it by way of your tax dollars and you deserve it!
Not sure what’s the best way to find support in your local community? Start by visiting the AARP’s Home & Family Caregiving-at-Home section and enter your city and state to learn about events, news and resources near you.
You can also visit The Family Caregiver Alliance which aims to support families nationwide caring for adult loved ones with chronic, disabling health conditions. Visit www.caregiver.org to learn about their educational materials such as videos, online classes, and an online dashboard to track your information and locate support.
Eldercare Resources
We have featured several pieces written by eldercare expert, Dr. Jim McCabe on the topics of authentic conversations, housing for aging parents, and how to age well.
- Dr. Jim McCabe on Authentic Conversations
- Dr. Jim McCabe on How to Plan Senior Housing for Aging Parents
- Expert Spotlight: Jim McCabe on How to Age Well
And of course, don’t forget about the rest of your social wellness support team when in a time of need. We would love to be one of your first calls when you aren’t sure where to start with your social wellness, financial wellness, or anywhere in between! Don’t hesitate to call us and let us know how we can help in planning to care for your loved one.