Serving as the primary caregiver for a loved one is one of the most difficult jobs to be done in life. It is certainly rewarding to positively impact the lives of those living with chronic diseases such as dementia, diabetes, and COPD. Caregivers are often also tasked with other important roles in their lives, such as earning money and emotionally supporting their own children and friends. It is vital that caregivers take the necessary time to self-evaluate and recognize signs of caregiver burnout. The old adage is true that if you are not taking care of yourself, you will not be well-equipped to care for others. Signs of burnout include anxiety, frustration, anger, and depression. Outbursts toward your loved one can lead to guilt. Another sign of burnout is the decline and neglect of your own physical health. On behalf of Friends for Friends, I encourage you to examine yourself and others who play that vital role as caregivers. If you are exhibiting any or all of the signs noted above, consider utilizing our compassionate in-home caregivers. We can work as a team with you to meet the needs of your loved one. We are here to help!

The month of June offers such beautiful weather in our great state of Connecticut. Many towns offer a variety of locations and programs to encourage its residents to explore on a walk. Going on a walk is an excellent way to bond with friends and family, and get exercise and fresh air. Several senior centers, including the East Hartford locations, organize walking groups. WalkCT is an organization that connects people of all ages to close by trails and pathways. Through their website, you can search for routes with a variety of difficulties and amenities. You can also identify if you want the routes to be suitable for children, teenagers, adults, and seniors. WalkCT also coordinates free monthly events called Family Rambles.

The Connecticut Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club offers a committee called East of the River. They have a phone line (866-576-6994) which describes their Tuesday and Thursday morning hikes, which are typically attended by older adults. As WalkCT simply states, “walking is free and easy”. And safely making it a part of your daily routine helps keep us happy and healthy. Friends for Friends reminds you to get out and enjoy the weather and the unique opportunities your town has to offer.

It is the time of year that the nation pauses to honor its veterans. I know every year on Memorial Day weekend, you can find me at Fairview Cemetery in my hometown of West Hartford, CT to place flags on the graves of those who fought for our country. I have one special veteran and mentor who will remain in my heart forever. And I try to make him proud every day. Helping with the program at Fairview is just one small token of my gratitude for his life and service. As a community, I am certain that many of you have loved ones who have dedicated their lives to service to our country.

Did you know that the President of the United States can be among those people to show their thanks for your loved one? The Presidential Memorial Certificates (PMC) program, established in 1962 under President John F. Kennedy and administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), exists to honor the memory of deceased veterans. Next of kin and loved ones of honorably discharged deceased veterans can apply to receive an engraved paper certificate signed by the current President. Keep in mind that it may take several months for the certificate to be issued. Multiple copies can be ordered. For more details on the eligibility criteria and on how to apply for this, visit http://www.cem.va.gov/cem/pmc.asp.

On behalf of Friends for Friends, I want to thank our veterans and wish you and your loved ones a happy and healthy Memorial Day!