Leadership, Community And Values Initiative
WORK/LIFE
Eldercare Resources
Nora Strothman, Gardener with Grounds Maintenance, shares her appreciation for the tremendous amount of support, resources, and education she has received through the UW’s Work/Life office--helping herself and her parents.
During the years I have cared for my elderly parents, I have found much support right here on campus. Besides occasional seminars on eldercare issues, I regularly attend the Family Caregiver Network monthly meetings (held on the last Tuesday of each month in the Brooklyn Building).
In the discussions facilitated by Work/Life staff, we receive current information on resources available, helpful advice on how to discuss difficult issues with family members, as well as guidance on caring for ourselves in order to avoid burnout. The practical information is great.
On another level, I also receive emotional support from others in the group, for which I am so appreciative. While I try to avoid burdening my co-workers with my eldercare frustrations, I know that at our monthly meetings I can share my concerns with people who care. Just knowing that we are not alone in our situation is amazingly helpful.
I truly appreciate the University's efforts to provide this kind of support to working families, and in particular I appreciate the fact that my supervisor encourages me to take advantage of this program.
