Healthcare Encounters: Up Close and Personal

摘要

Recently, I experienced being a caregiver to a postsurgical family member. It was not a role I wanted or relished, but the experience taught me more than any other mode of education could. Almost simultaneously, I received a letter from a true caregiver. Jo Ann was the primary caregiver and medical power of attorney for her 91-year-old father with dementia during a 5-year span. She wanted to share her family's perspective of their medical experiences so that case managers might gain insight and feedback. I want to add my voice-starting with the fact that caring for an ill family member may be the hardest work I have ever done. It is not for the faint hearted, and I have no idea how those with suboptimal health, themselves, can cope. So my first critical request for case managers is to keep in mind that families coping with long, chronic illnesses need support and, when possible, respite.