Can Get Help Caring For The OnesThey Love (NAPSA)—Taking care of a family member who is aging or ill can be tough—butyou don't haveto doit alone. Just ask actor Danny Trejo, whostars in a new PSA(public service advertisements) campaign supporting male caregivers. “T’ve helped carefor a friend of mine who hadcancer, so I know how hard it can be,’ explained Trejo. The Facts: Men Are Providing Care, Too Menrepresent 40 percent ofthe more than 40 million unpaid family caregivers in the US., representing 16 million sons, As men continue to take on care- giving roles, they are looking for practical information and support tailored to their needs. husbandsandfriendscaring for an adult loved one in need. Menare doing more than just managing finances or running errands. Sixty-three percent of male caregivers are the primary caregiver for their “Caring for someoneelseis one ofthe toughest jobs thereis,” said DannyTrejo. “There's no shamein getting some helpif that’s what you need to stay strong” tion's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans age 50 and older. Many of these male caregivers help their loved bilities with a full- or part-time job, and loved one, according to AARP, the na- ones with personal care such aseating, bathing and dressing, as well as medical and nursing tasks. More than half find it difficult to help loved ones with these intimate care needs andfeel unprepared. To help family caregivers, AARP and the Ad Council launched the Caregiver Assistance Campaign, directing people to free caregiving resources at aarp.org/ caregiving. ‘The latest PSAs are specifically targeted to men, because they are less likely to see themselves as caregivers or to reach outfor help. Celebrating the inner strength of caregivers, the TV ads feature Danny Trejo, an actor known for his “tough guy” persona. While Trejo performsfeats of strength and daring, a caregiver performsacts of care for his father, such as preparing dinner andhelping him shave. In a twist, Trejo praises the caregiver as “the toughest guy on the planet.” The PSAs feature the tagline “caregiving is tougher than tough” and remindcaregivers that they can find help and support. Tips for Caregivers ‘The majority of caregivers (60 percent) juggle their caregiving responsi- that percentage is even higher for men. Juggling work and caregiving responsibilities can be highly stressful, putting caregivers at risk for depression, anxi- ety, and heart disease. A few quick tips to help caregivers in this role include: Falling victim to a scam could be a sign that a loved one needs support. Help them sort mail and throw out obvious scam threats. Create a daily caregiving checklist and checkoff items daily. You'll stay on-task and communicate more easily with others involvedin your loved one’s care. e To ease stress and save time, do care- giving prep like selecting clothes or preparing food and medicines the nightbefore. Caregiving brings many challenges but also many joys. Take time to savor the joyful, rewarding moments. Learn More For free caregiving resources, in- cluding practical Care Guides tailored to specific topics and challenges, visit www.aarp.org/caregiving or call (877) 333-5885.
