Resources bring hope to farming families
Book and video chronicle nine families
Millions of Americans care for elderly or disabled loved ones, but for caregivers in rural settings, the isolation and loss of personal freedom can be even greater than for those in more populated areas. To address the life-altering changes experienced by farm families caring for disabled loved ones, the Breaking New Ground Resource Center at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, developed a book and video titled, To Everything There is a Season: A Guide for Caregivers of Farmers and Ranchers with Disabilities, which recently was recognized by the National Council on the Aging.
These tools chronicle the changes nine families have experienced as a result of a family member’s disability. "The book and video were developed as a tool to help families so they realize that they’re not alone," says Barry Delks, director of the Breaking New Ground Resource Center. "We want to make sure families aren’t caught off guard by the obstacles ahead, and provide caregivers with the tools to overcome these emotional and family difficulties."
Delks has shown the video 10 times at public meetings for caregivers and disabled groups. "I’ve been giving similar presentations for eight years, and I’ve never received applause after showing a video until now. The impact of the personal stories of each family is incredible. I’ve had many families come up and tell me they wish they had this video available when they first faced the challenges of caregiving." He hopes case managers and rehabilitation facilities will use the video and book to encourage farm families in their time of need. "So many videos focus on the person with the illness or injury. This video is for the entire family. I want people to know it is available."
[Editor’s note: The book/video set costs $75. To order, contact: Barry Delks, Breaking New Ground Resource Center, Purdue University, 1146 Agriculture and Biological Engineering Building, West Lafayette, IN 47907-1146. Telephone: (800) 825-4264.]
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