Reaching For The Gold, May 6, 2014
Reaching For The Gold with Harriet Tramer
This show deals with means by which caregivers can manage the stress they are facing. Some people might not envision family caregiving as being stressful. But it certainly can become overwhelming in its complexity and demands. If nothing else, it can be physically draining. Somebody of a certain age might be told that, "You are old to care for a child. The lifting and everything else you would have to do is mor than you can handle." But that same person would not hear those comments if they were caring for an older person. This duality seemingly reflects a real disconnect.
Guest, Dr Steven Zarit
Dr. Steven Zarit has done considerable research as regards how the stress experienced by family caregivers can best be managed. His recent research focuses upon the benefits that caregivers derive when their elder attends a day care facility. This arrangement allows them a valuable respite from their caregiving efforts. His studies indicate that having this support even results in caregivers' level of stress hormones decreasing.
Dr. Zarit developed the Zarit Burden interview that measures the extent to which caregiving might be placing a "burden" upon those who accept this "responsibility." It has been used extensively in both therapeutic and research settings.
Reaching For The Gold
A publishing journalist and a college instructor Harriet finds that these two careers have much in common as they both demand honing communication skills every day. Harriet instructs her students almost exclusively online and her writing is published in print and over the web. Times change but the need to speak to your audience by being concise, yet intriguing, is key.
