The pandemic multiplied the needs, concerns and worries of the nation’s 53 million family caregivers—and also ways to help them.
Dori Hazama needed practical and emotional help after her mother fell last fall, spent months in rehab and was about to come home in a wheelchair.
Her parents’ home needed a wheelchair ramp and hospital bed. Her mom needed in-home care. Her dad was overwhelmed. Ms. Hazama was losing her temper.
“I was mad that my mom didn’t try to walk and mad that my dad didn’t make her,” says Ms. Hazama, of Oldsmar, Fla. The pandemic added another layer of anxiety.
A friend directed her to Theresa Wilbanks, a certified caregiving consultant, who offered advice, resources and support remotely.