In todays,episode, we continue the discussion of public policies with respect to caregiving, outside the United States. In my limited research, I found no consistency among various programs and policies in place around the world. Although, there are definitely some 'best practices' that could be incorporated into existing programs and policies. While most of the discussion surrounded itself with programs at the national level, its apparent advocacy and resources at the local level may be the fastest and best way to gain attention and get services needed for caregivers. There is a caregiver crisis around the world, and small steps taken at the local level may be the best way to close the gap between caregivers' needs and resoources available to them.

There is a caregiver crisis happening throughout the world. For the vast majority, the role of caregiver falls to a family member or close friend when a loved one is diagnosed with a serious illness or disabiity. It is one of the most important jobs a person will have, and yet, one they are least prepared to take on. The gap between caregiver support needs, and resources available is widening. In today's episode, John and Fran talk about the state of caregiving, and of caregivers in the United States. Our next episode will focus on policies and programs outside teh United States.

In part 2, we continue the conversation with Patty and Lori. Two women whose partners are the primary caregivers to their parents. If you are a caregiver, we know the feeling of isolation can be overwhelming. You feel like its all on you to take care of your loved one. Its 24/7 and can be grueling, physically and emotionally exhausting. But there is help out there. Just as you surround your patient with total care, there are others, in those outer rings of the concentric circles, that are there to support you. To provide a hand with tasks, or perhaps just a shoulder to lean on, an ear to listen. It can be a family member, a friend, a church group, a caregiver support group. But as the caregiver, you have to raise your eyes from the immediate duties and see and seek the help.

If you are a friend, spouse, partner, neighbor of a caregiver, you are in one of those concentric circles. You can lend support, even in the smallest ways to lighten the load of the caregiver. Be sensitive to their needs, be aware of the daily duties that acumulate and ca weigh heavily on a caregiver. Its a long road on the caregiver journey. Even the smallest respite can go along way.