"Caring In The Comfort Of HomeTM: A Guide For Carers" - New Book Offers Life-line For Those Providing Care At Home

Main Category: Caregivers / Homecare
Also Included In: Neurology / Neuroscience
Article Date: 29 Oct 2008 - 3:00 PDT

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The European Federation of Neurological Associations (EFNA) today announced the launch of "Caring in the Comfort of HomeTM: a Guide for Carers", a basic manual that every carer needs to help carers keep people who need care where they belong - in their own home if possible.

For most people, there is no place like home. But every year hundreds of thousands of people affected by illness and disability face the heart-breaking situation that they can no longer manage to look after themselves at home. Some are elderly, some have chronic disease but for whatever reason they can only remain in their own home if they have someone to help care for them.

Although the Social Services can provide help with care, unpaid carers among family and friends are a vital support - their value to the individual is priceless and their value to society has been estimated at £87 billion each year. Without a carer the alternative for many may be a move to a residential or nursing home.

But the physical and emotional demands on carers are huge, and many feel lost, alone, frustrated and uncertain. Although the government has now launched a National Strategy for carers, which will undoubtedly help, many carers still feel overwhelmed and don't know where to turn to for practical advice and help.

Dr Patricia Macnair, BBC journalist and a doctor working in a rehabilitation hospital for the elderly, thinks every carer should be offered a copy. "Many of our patients are totally dependent on their carers if they are to have any chance of getting back home after their illness or accident. But there are so many things for the carer to think about, organise and manage. They usually have to provide personal care such as washing and toileting, dress wounds or look out for illness complications, give the person the right medicines at the right time, help them to sort out their money, bills and benefits, and even help them to socialise and keep in touch with others. It's a huge challenge. 'Caring in the Comfort of HomeTM' is a straightforward guide packed with nuggets of information that should be invaluable in every home where someone is providing care."

"Caring in the Comfort of HomeTM: a Guide for Carers" is easy to read, and covers a range of issues from sources of practical and financial help, to strategies to avoid carer injury or burnout and is an essential guide to help carers. "Too often carers struggle without the help and support they need. This comprehensive guide is full of practical advice on getting help and dealing with the more difficult emotional issues caring can bring. A great starting point for any carer." -- Imelda Redmond, Chief Executive, Carers UK

"Caring in the Comfort of HomeTM: a Guide for Carers" was inspired by a similar manual very successful in the USA ("The Comfort of Home; a Complete Guide for Caregivers"), and some of the chapters are drawn from this guide. Its authors Sylvia Denton, CBE, FRCN and Sharon Haffenden, have many years of experience in working with carers and within healthcare. Sylvia's nursing career has spanned several decades including a wide range of clinical practice and research and she was campaigner for carers' issues.

Joanna Ridley, National Carers Programme Lead, MS Society stated "This is a great resource; so much information in one place, easily accessible and practical. From those new to caring to those providing care around the clock, this publication has something for everyone." Carol Cochrane, Princess Royal Trust for Carers supported this view saying "Carers need all the help they can get and this includes good, concise and clearly presented information."

"Caring in the Comfort of HomeTM: a Guide for Carers" published by Care Trust Publications LLC costs £10. Click here for order form.

The European Federation of Neurological Associations (EFNA) brings together 15 pan-European umbrella organisations of neurological patient advocacy groups, to work with other associations in the field of neurology and other brain disorders with a view to improving the quality of life of people living with neurological conditions, their families and carers.

It recognised the need for real, practical help for carers and has produced this book in the UK with the hope that further editions will be possible for other European countries, to suit their languages and cultures.

For further information on the activities of EFNA visit www.efna.net