Being a caregiver is a demanding job, author tells Decorah audience

An estimated 298,000 Iowans are caregivers for an older or disabled adult.  Being a caregiver is valuable, demanding and rewarding all at the same time. November is National Caregivers Month, a time to recognize the dedication of family caregivers for their efforts to improve the lives and dignity of their loved ones and friends in need.  

Author Jolene Brackey says the number of caregivers is only going to get bigger as the baby boomers age.  Brackey says people who become caregivers need to learn how to ask for help and not think they are the only ones who can provide care.  Brackey told decorahnews.com that when caregivers are asked how they are doing and respond, "I'm fine," they need to be told "fine is not an emotion."

She says the secret to being a caregiver is learning how to pace yourself and to learn how to ask others for their help.

Brackey's appearance in Decorah Monday was sponsored by NorthLand Agency on Aging.