It’s Wednesday, which means it’s time for Neighbors in Action, when we feature people and organizations working to make mid-Michigan a better place. It’s estimated that there are more than two-million caregivers in Michigan. Some are health care professionals, but many others provide care for their family members at home. Even with the proper training, caregiving is stressful work, both physically and emotionally.A recent study by the Mental Health Commission of Canada found that 16-percent of people giving care to a family member reported having “very high” levels of stress. That means those who provide care to others are themselves at risk for depression, financial strain, even suicide.
Current State talks with members of a support group in the Albion area: Caring for the Caregivers. Sylvia Benavidez is the group’s facilitator. She’s the Adult Services Programming Assistant at the Albion District Library. Also with us is Christi Vaughn, who’s caring for her father, who’s coping with dementia.
Current State is looking for more nominations for our “Neighbors In Action” feature. Please help us out and e-mail us your suggestions to currentstate@wkar.org. Put ‘Neighbors in Action’ in the subject line. Or tweet us: @KARCurrentState and tell us a little about why you think they should be featured for the great work they do.