The MPO Finance Committee in Utah held a meeting on November 25, 2024, focusing on the essential tools and legal considerations for caregivers, particularly in the context of dementia care. The session featured insights from Klea and Kara Dassel, who emphasized the importance of caregiver well-being alongside the care they provide.

Kara Dassel, a professor of gerontology at the University of Utah, shared her personal journey into the field of caregiving, highlighting her passion for connecting with older adults. She noted that caregiving is a universal experience, affecting individuals caring for loved ones with various health conditions, including dementia, cancer, and heart failure. Dassel underscored the significance of self-care for caregivers, stating, "Taking care of you is not selfish." She encouraged caregivers to prioritize their health to provide optimal support to those they care for.

The discussion also addressed the long-term nature of caregiving, which can often feel like a marathon rather than a sprint. Dassel stressed the necessity of building a support network or care team to help manage the physical and emotional demands of caregiving. She pointed out that chronic stress, a common issue among caregivers, can lead to serious health problems, including anxiety, depression, and weakened immune responses.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for caregivers to create systems of support that can sustain them through their caregiving journey. This approach not only benefits the caregivers but also ensures better care for their loved ones. The insights shared during the meeting aim to equip caregivers with practical tools and a deeper understanding of the importance of their own well-being in the caregiving process.