Well, like everyone else, you get a little extra time this year.
According to my ciphering, that means an extra 1,440 minutes to be precise.
So, how will you spend this additional precious time?
How have you spent your time so far?
Very judiciously, I trust.
Time is the subject of a recent US News & World Report article directed to caregivers and titled "Caregivers: Spend Your Time Wisely This Year."
When you look at time as money, each dollar represents a minute that will disappear quickly unless you carefully mind how you spend it. As a caregiver, if you spending your time (money) on things that are not beneficial, then you are left with less time to do what you want.
Are you stuck at home as a caregiver? Do you feel trapped sometimes because you have no time for yourself?
Many times, primary caregivers feel constrained by too little time (and money) to take better care of themselves.
The original article has some practical pointers to help you leverage your time and energy.
For example, remember to take periodic breaks from your duties. Investigate the availability of adult-day services, in-home care, or residential care.
If the person for whom you are caring is a war-time veteran or is the widow of one, then there may be "Aid & Attendance Benefits" to help out through the Veterans Administration.
Did you know an experienced elder law attorney can help sort out many of the issues that caregivers face.
He or she will have information about adult-day services, caregiver support groups, in-home care, assisted living, and skilled-nursing care.
Do not go it alone.
To find elder law attorneys in your area, visit the website of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and its nationwide directory.
Remember: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” When making your financial, tax and estate plans, do not go it alone. Be sure to engage competent professional counsel.
Reference: US News & World Report (January 15, 2016) "Caregivers: Spend Your Time Wisely This Year"
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