LOVE LETTERS: THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING
How does one repay the affection and attention that our family members have lavished upon us? We can’t – but we can ensure that we are prepared if the time comes that our loved ones can no longer take care of themselves and need our help. Why? Simply, Because We Care.
Experts tell us that by the year 2020, the United States will need more caregivers than teachers due to our rapidly aging population. Along with Hispanics, African Americans have the highest reported prevalence of caregiving. Ethnic minorities also provide more care, use less formal services, and subsequently report worse health than their White counterparts. The need to provide care to a loved one often comes without warning, and both receiving and providing care can have major legal, economic and health implications for the entire family.1
In March 2014, The Black Women’s Agenda, Inc., and its National Collaborating Organizations launched Because We Care – an initiative in collaboration with AARP which featured a series of free forums that provide Black women and their families with the resources and tools to take better care of their loved ones and themselves. Recently, the organization expanded this initiative to introduce “Love Letters” a critical information template that helps families begin the conversation on providing and receiving care.
BWA encourages you to give yourself and your loved ones an invaluable gift – resolve to broach the subject of caregiving with your family and those close to you, again simply Because We Care.
For additional information on preparing to give or receive care, please click on the “Because We Care” or “Conversations on Caregiving” tabs on this website.
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1 Dilworth-Anderson, P., Williams, I.C. and Gibson, B.E. (2002). “Issues of Race, Ethnicity and Culture in Caregiving Research: A 20-year Review (1980-2000). Gerontologist, 42(2), 237-272.
OTHER NEWS
Spirit of Change Conversation Series
Relatedness is a basic psychological experience. We all need to feel connected to other human beings: to care and be cared for, and to belong. We believe that bringing our country together starts with meaningful conversation. Our goal is to reduce polarization and social bias, to increase the willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue, and create an increased understanding and appreciation for our differences and similarities.
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month
According to the American Diabetes Association, “1.25 million Americans have type 1 diabetes and 40,000 people will be diagnosed with it this year. Type 1 diabetes occurs at every age, in people of every race, and of every shape and size.
In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. The body breaks down the carbohydrates you eat into blood sugar that it uses for energy—and insulin is a hormone that the body needs to get glucose from the bloodstream into the cells of the body. With the help of insulin therapy and other treatments, everyone can learn to manage their condition and live long healthy lives.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes—and it means that your body doesn’t use insulin properly. And while some people can control their blood sugar levels with healthy eating and exercise, others may need medication or insulin to help manage it.
AN OPEN LETTER TO THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS
Founded in 1977, The Black Women’s Agenda, Inc. is a national organization with a mission of educating and protecting the rights of African American women and their families, and represents more than 3 million women.
This Open Letter is being sent in support of women throughout the United States and the World. We understand the importance of recognizing the “person-hood” of women and their complete dominion over their bodies, including matters of pregnancy and reproductive health.
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