What You Should Know about National Donor Day

Homecare Massapequa NY

Homecare Massapequa NYWhen you think of February 14, you likely first think about Valentine’s Day. As a family caregiver, however, you should be aware of another observance that makes the hearts so popular in Valentine’s decorations even more meaningful. February 14 is also National Donor Day, a day set aside to raise awareness about organ donation, what it means for those in need of donations, and how it can impact the lives of those who choose to give the gift of life through donation. Understanding this can help you to guide your parent toward the decision that is right for them as you make the choice that is right for you. For many elderly adults, knowing that they are an organ donor gives them a great sense of pride and confidence that they can still do good even when their life has come to an end.

What you should know about National Donor Day and organ donation includes:

• 95 percent of adults report that they support organ donation.

• Throughout the United States there are approximately 2,091 children who are waiting for an organ transplant.

• There is no age limit to be an organ donor and organs have been used from donors of all ages. The oldest organ donor on record to have donated an organ to a recipient was 92 years old.

• Even people with medical conditions can be an organ donor. Health issues do not always impact all organs and tissues of the body, meaning that even if one area of your parent’s body is impacted by a health complication or disease, they may still be able to donate other tissues or organs.

• Being an organ donor does not impact the quality of care that your parent will receive at the hospital or doctor if they become ill or have an accident.

• Your parent can still follow through with end-of-life arrangements, including having an open-casket funeral, if they are a donor.

If you have been looking for ways to enhance your parent’s quality of life and help them to live a lifestyle that is safe, healthy, comfortable, active, and independent, starting elder homecare for them might be the ideal option. An elderly homecare services provider can be with your parent on a customized schedule to ensure that they get the care, support, and assistance that they need while also promoting as much autonomy as possible. They can then devise a course of management and care specifically tailored to their needs so that they can have the highest quality of life no matter what the level of care they require.

As their family caregiver knowing that your senior has an elderly homecare services provider with them can give you greater confidence that they will have everything that they need both when you are with them and when you are not. This can help to reduce the chances that your parent will suffer issues such as depression, loneliness, isolation, and loss of motivation, and boost their ability to make the most of their later years.

Sources:  https://www.donoralliance.org/events/national-donor-day/
https://organdonor.gov/index.html

If you or an aging loved one are considering Homecare Services in Massapequa NY, please contact the caring staff at Gentle Hands Home Care.