(BPT) - By UnitedHealthcare
Grandparents are often the ultimate caregivers, playing critical roles in their families, especially when it comes to raising their grandchildren. In fact, research from Generations United found that nearly 8 million children in the U.S. live in households headed by grandparents or other relatives.
For these grandparents and relatives, caring for their families often comes first, even before their own health and well-being. But the truth is that caregivers need care, too. This year, learn about what steps families can take to ensure these family leaders stay healthy and receive the care they need.
1. Start with preventive care
Families can help their grandparents and other caretakers stay on track with their health by encouraging them to schedule an annual wellness visit. A yearly visit can help them get a full picture of their health, catch health concerns — like chronic disease — early and support healthy aging.
During a visit, a doctor will recommend preventive care screenings and help create a personalized care plan to help grandparents reach their health goals.
2. Prioritize nutrition for health
One area of health that can't be ignored is nutrition. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 90% of adults aged 65 and older have at least one chronic condition, yet healthy eating may lower risk of conditions like heart disease and Type 2 diabetes.
Having access to nutritious foods can support overall health, help people stay active as they age and play an important role in managing chronic conditions. That said, access to nutritious food is out of reach for many older adults.
Research from the AARP Public Policy Institute found that about 1 in 10 adults aged 50 and older experienced food insecurity, and seniors with a grandchild present in the home are about twice as likely to experience food insecurity than when no grandchildren are present, according to Feeding America.
The good news is that eligible people can access food assistance through food banks, food benefits, including support for women, infants and children, or even their health plan. Families can learn more about available resources and find tips for healthy meal planning and saving on grocery costs at CelebrateGrandparents.com.
3. Learn about health coverage that may help
Grandparents and other relatives who help raise or care for grandchildren may be balancing school schedules, transportation, meals, healthcare and household expenses. To help them care for themselves while caring for others, families should help grandparents research what resources and benefits are available to them.
One place to start is by reviewing their health coverage, especially if a grandparent has both Medicare and Medicaid. Many people who qualify for Medicare and Medicaid may not realize they could be eligible for a Dual Special Needs plan (D-SNP). These plans are offered by many companies.
Depending on the plan, D-SNPs may connect eligible people to additional support for everyday needs like:
- Dental, vision and hearing coverage
- Transportation to care appointments
- Help with over-the-counter products, food or utilities
4. Research what additional support is available
The best step anyone can take is to learn about the resources available to them in their area.
Grandparents deserve just as much care and support as they give. To learn more about available resources, including D-SNPs, visit CelebrateGrandparents.com.
