Yes! Being a caregiver is indeed an experience that provides many opportunities to learn new skills, provide guidance to others in the caregiving role, and create an awareness of strengths you have as an individual. A support group is one way to share your knowledge, but you may also want to consider getting involved in a research project. The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is currently conducting an exciting research project with family caregivers. The project is called the League of Experienced Family Caregivers (LEFC) and is a registry of family caregivers around the nation who are sharing their experiences, stories, and wisdom about caring for a loved one by completing short questionnaires. The information gathered is helping the research team create and advocate for new and better services to help family caregivers like you.
How can I participate?
Participation requires little time and is made convenient for caregivers who are busy in their everyday caregiving role. Questionnaires can be completed one of three ways: 1) by mail; 2) by phone; or 3) on the project Web site at www.familycaregivers.uwm.edu. All information collected is kept confidential, and caregivers can withdraw from the project at any time.
To learn more about LEFC or to become a member, please contact the LEFC staff toll-free at (800) 410-2586 or via e-mail at lefc@uwm.edu. You can also visit the Web site at www.familycaregivers.uwm.edu.
Help us give caregivers around the nation a voice.
