Free Event Addresses Crucial Planning for Elderly Care

By Maui Now Staff

AARP hold a free public event for caregivers and residents who are preparing to care for elderly adults. The pau hana will be held at the Binhi At Ani Filipino Community Center on Friday, March 27, from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Attendees will learn about community resources and supports that are available to assist with caring for older friends and family members. The keynote speaker, retired US Army Major General Antonio “Tony” Taguba, urges family members and caregivers to plan in advance for aging parents, and not wait for a crisis to occur.

Taguba, a caregiving ambassador for AARP, speaks from his own experience in addressing aging parent needs. He offers practical advice for people facing the difficult but critical task of caring for elderly family and friends.

Register for the event online or call (877) 926-8300.

“Family caregiving is an issue that affects all of us in some way,” said AARP Hawaiʻi State Director Barbara Kim Stanton. “Whether you’re caring for an older family member now, preparing to help in the future, or thinking about your own care needs, Hawaiʻi residents are looking for answers. There is a critical need in our community for information and support for caregivers and their loved ones.”

The event will also include an overview of the AARP Hawaiʻi’s latest efforts to get lawmaker support for local caregivers and their families. AARP has launched an initiative called “I Heart Caregivers” to acknowledge and honor Hawaiʻi residents who give of themselves every day in the personal care of others. The public is asked to support the cause by sharing stories about caregivers they know online.

In a recent survey of Hawaiʻi voters 45 years and older, over half said they are now providing or have provided care to an adult loved one. About 63 percent said it is likely they will provide care for an adult family member or friend in the future.