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Carenotes

Welcome to CareNotes. In this special section we will feature a reader's letter and provide an opportunity for an interactive exchange that will help find some answers and possible solutions to concerns. If you wish to respond to this letter, simple follow the link provided at the end of the letter and add your comments and thoughts to our CareNotes Board.

This Week's Carenote - 12/17/08

How do I find local help and support. This year I have developed Diabetes, Parkinson's and Bipolar Disorder, I have had no income for 3 months, I sleep less than 4 hours a night, have a Mother who has been in the hospital for two weeks after having a toe amputated from staff infection ... I'm burnt-out and exhausted. Now the hospital wants me to administer IV antibiotics twice a day for 6 weeks. I haven't had a vacation for 7 years and the only support I have is an alcoholic brother who does not work that I also support.

I'm over it and desperately need help. I don't know what to do next.

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Name: Dixie Douthit
Location: Kitsap Co., Washington State
Date: 12/17/2008
Time: 09:44 AM

Comments

Each state should have local County on Aging Groups - Call or go in and see an intake specialist. They will advise you on how and what types of assistance you need and can receive.

Name: Yvonne Lange
Location: South Dakota
Date: 12/17/2008
Time: 02:48 PM

Comments

Your mom may be eligible for home health nurse from the hospital to do the IV's, since she was hospitalized for the infection. See the hospital social services department.

Name: Charles
Location: MS
Date: 12/17/2008
Time: 03:03 PM

Comments

Before you can adequately care for others, you must be stable yourself. Discuss your mother's care with the hospital's social worker/discharge planner so alternate care arrangements can be made. Possible options include home health, inpatient sub-acute services or rehabilitation. As for your brother, he has an illness that is unlikely to improve until you stop supporting and "taking care of" (enabling)him. Get support for yourself by attending Al Anon. Obtain psychiatric and medical treatment for your bipolar disorder, diabetes and Parkinson's. Set realistic, reasonable goals for yourself. Now is the time to focus on caring for yourself and getting yourself healthy. Best wishes to you.

Name: WaxOvenna
Location: Czech Republic
Date: 07/02/2009
Time: 12:52 PM

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