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Question: Hey Dr. Smith! I believe I am getting burnt out from caring for my sick mother who is a diabetic, but I’m not sure. What are some signs of burnout? I still love her, but I’m just so fatigued all time.
Answer:
May 25, 2009
Hello!
Tip of the week: Many family caregivers don’t want to admit it when they are fatigued. I am proud that you are willing to acknowledge that you might be becoming burnt out. Stress is high for most family caregivers. You have to sacrifice so much of yourself emotionally, which can affect your health. Some of the signs that you are becoming burnt out include:
· You are Irritable & Angry
· Your are Depressed & Fatigue easily
· Feelings of loneliness & Sleep Problems
· Headache, Poor Appetite, Anxiety, or Rashes
· You Feel “blah,” like no one cares but you
I suggest getting away for awhile if possible. Also, you’ve have got to have someone to talk to. Burn out can lead to depression. Ask you pastor and church family to with and for you. Remember that God is with you no matter what.
Don't forget to email me your questions and/or comments. I am always happy to hear from you!
Best wishes,
Clarissa
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Question: What is the proper hand washing technique, you didn’t tell me in your last blog, did you forget? What about this antibacterial soap stuff? Is it good?
Answer:
May 22, 2009
Tip of the Week: Sorry about that. Here is the information you requested, and remember if you are caring for an aging parent, wash your hands OFTEN! You can’t see germs with the naked eye!
According to the CDC, here is what you should do:
Soap & Water:
1. First you should turn on the water, make it warm, and apply the liquid soap, or clean bar soap. Get a good lather on your hands.
2. Next, the standard is to rub your hands together for about 15 to 20 seconds, going in between your fingers, up to your wrist, and the back of your hands. Don’t forget to scrub under your fingernails too! Many germs reside there.
3. Rinse your hands well and dry them with a clean or disposable towel. Don’t turn the faucet off with your clean hands, use a towel to turn it off. Use a towel to open the door.
* Antibacterial soaps have not been found to be that effective at reducing germs as regular soap. On the other hand, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are great if you don’t have access to soap and water. I personally like soap and water better, but because I have kids and aging parents, I keep my hand sanitizer with me and even in the car. They are said to be better at killing viruses and bacteria. If you use it, keep several bottles in several places for easy access.
Hope this helps!
Clarissa 
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Question: Where is the first place I should look for community resources for my grandparents? They need Meals On Wheels and help around the house. Where do I begin?
Answer:
May 18, 2009
Hey! Hey! Hey!
Tip of the week: The first thing you need to do is find out what your grandparents qualify for. Every state has an Agency on Aging which was established under the Older Americans Act of 1965. The Agency on Aging provides services such as:
· Legal Services
· Counseling
· Information & Refferal
· Abuse Prevention
· Meal Delivery
· Nutritional Education Programs
· Health Screenings
· Caregiver Support Groups
· Health Insurance Information
· Wellness Promotion & More
Just look in your telephone book under federal, state, or local government services. Here in Birmingham, call your local office of Senior Citizen Services at (205) 325-1416.
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Question: I take care of my mother-in-law. Every time she gets a cold or the flu, I get it too. What is the absolute best way to prevent this from happening to me?
Answer:
May 15, 2009
Tip of the Week: The flu is serious for older people because it can turn into pneumonia. Hand washing is your first line of defense against the spread of germs. Every year thousands of people die needlessly by not washing their hands properly and often enough. Another thing is that if you are a caregiver, your immune system may be low from stress and not caring for yourself. Go and get a check-up. My doctor told me to keep taking Vitamin C, you need to check with your own doctor for his advice for you.
Take Care Of Yourself!
Clarissa 
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Question: What are the main reasons why people divorce? My grandparents have decided to divorce after 35 years. I just don't understand why.
Answer:
May 8, 2009
Tip of the Week: You know, today, the divorce rate is past 50% for all marriages. In fact, second marriages have an even higher divorce rate--somewhere around 60%. Thirty-five years is a long time. They have definitely broken the record of longevity. Statistically speaking, most marriages end in divorce within the first 3-7 years. According to marriage counselors and research the top three reasons for divorce are: money, communication, sex or problems in the bedroom. Unfortunately, most people aren’t really committed any more and love is a decision, not just a feeling. So, know that marriage involves hard work and that divorce should never be a first option for you and your family. Besides…do you really think the grass is greener over yonder?” Most people seem to think so. Personally I don’t think so; I think it is green where ever you water it!
Stay Blessed!
Clarissa 
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