Support systems and stress reduction among workers caring for dependent parents

This study investigated the impact of three types of support--from family and friends, the workplace, and community services agencies--on the perceived stress and health outcomes of 133 employed caregivers of dependent parents. The stressor-support-stress-reaction model guided the research. Support from family and friends and community agencies was found to buffer the negative impact of caregiving and work and family role strain, and a supportive work environment was one predictor of lessened physical strain.     

Practical tips for incontinence

Incontinence of urine and feces is a commonly encountered problem, particularly among bedridden elders. Although incontinence is often a transient problem precipitated by the onset of an unrelated medical condition or use of certain medications, incontinent patients are at high risk for developing both perineal dermatitis and pressure ulcers resulting from friction and shear injury.     

Parenting for foster parents

A parenting course for foster parents was described with a follow-up evaluation utilized to determine its effectiveness. The content of this broad-based course included learning theory, principles and techniques, communication skills, methods of conflict resolution, developmental considerations, and information about community services. Results of the evaluation suggested that most of the participants had found the course helpful and were using the knowledge acquired.     

The AIDS epidemic: caring for caregivers

AIDS has become a global health problem for individuals, families and health care providers. This disease has a tremendous impact on the physical and psychological well-being of these groups. Nurses are on the front line providing physical care and support for these patients and their families; but nurses also need support and caring as they carry out their important nursing roles. This article addresses the effects of AIDS on nurses and presents a model for nursing administrators to establish and maintain a supportive, caring environment for nurses.     

Project caring for life--long-term care funding alternative

The synopsis of The Hawaii Long-Term Care Task Force describes the product of project: "Caring ... For Life" as "the framework for implementation of a long-term care system. Framework will encompass promotion, programs, education, legislation and other initiatives necessary for an effective system. The product will be a combined effort of the private sector and government to bring about changes which will provide a continuum of services to all residents in need of long-term care in the least intensive, most appropriate and affordable setting." The purpose of this concept paper has been to paint the big picture of LTC as it now is and provide, in concept, an alternative picture of what it could be. It is by no means complete but hopefully will serve as an initial effort to be addressed and, if appropriate, be expanded upon or modified. It could also serve as a basis of comparison for other alternatives as they are considered. Long-term care is a complex problem, there are no quick fixes. The solution will require great imagination and the ultimate of our creativity. The product should be flexible and above all, should be able to stand the test of time.     

The caring imperative

Healing depends on a caring, involved physician. In his story "Ward Number Six," Anton Chekhov illustrated how patients suffer when physicians become apathetic. Reading this story may inspire physicians to resist apathy and assume greater responsibility for the social conditions that impact on their patients' well-being. It may also stimulate physicians' imagination in such a way as to improve their ability to empathize with their patients. Finally, the act of reading itself--particularly reading great literature such as "Ward Number Six," can help rejuvenate those physicians who struggle with their own apathy.     

Popular primers for parents.

Notes that we are witnessing a proliferation of parenting "primers" as Dr. Spock is joined by a host of other child-care "experts." The present paper examines the extent and characteristics of the audience for these practical child-care manuals by integrating information from 4 of the author's studies. Data are presented from (a) a survey of 100 child-care publications, (b) the responses of 48 parents to a questionnaire about sources of child-care advice, (c) the questionnaire responses of 60 readers of parenting books owned by a public library, and (d) interviews with 104 mothers participating in a larger study of child-care. Results indicate that the publication and the reading of this literature have increased over the past several decades. Almost all parents read at least one such book, and a substantial proportion read more than 5. Those who read the most books are relatively young, worried about being parents, and isolated from family sources of child care. Although the number of books parents read is related to their education, it is not related to occupation. The characteristics and reactions of parents reading child-care books are discussed (a) in the context of current social conditions that may increase reliance on "expert" advice about child care, and (b) in light of the goals and shortcomings of the advice that is offered. (23 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Practical tips for getting involved in politics.

Psychologists have much to offer the political process at all levels of government–local, state, and federal. Entry-level offices may be either appointive or elective at the local level and on state boards. One can have more influence as a member of whichever political party is dominant in the district or community. Attention gained in office may help build one's private practice. Involvement in state psychological associations benefits all. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)