64: Forgotten Children! – The Shocking Reality of Young Caregivers & How to Protect Their Future with Connie Siskowski, RN, PhD

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🎙️ Episode Summary:

In this episode of "Hormones, Metabolism, and You," Dr. Cassie Smith and guest Connie Siskowski, RN, PhD explore the challenges faced by children caring for chronically ill family members. They discuss the emotional, educational, and health impacts on young caregivers, the lack of recognition and support in schools, and the need for policy changes. Dr. Siskowski shares her personal experiences and describes her work with the American Association of Caregiving Youth, highlighting the importance of community support and resources for these often-overlooked children.

About Connie Siskowski, RN, PhD:

Educated at Johns Hopkins, New York University and Lynn University, her doctoral research uncovered the high prevalence of caregiving by students in Palm Beach County, FL. In 1998 she established what is now the American Association of Caregiving Youth with its successful Caregiving Youth Project and Caregiving Youth Institute. Connie has contributed to multiple publications. Awards include an Ashoka Fellowship, Purpose Prize, Distinguished Alumna Award (Johns Hopkins University), Top Ten CNN Hero, a star on Boca Raton’s Walk of Recognition, and a faculty appointment to the RAISE Family Caregiving Advisory Council.

✨ Key Topics Covered:

• The role of children as caregivers for chronically ill family members.

• Emotional and educational challenges faced by young caregivers.

• The impact of the aging population on caregiving dynamics.

• The effects of COVID-19 on young caregivers' mental health and academic performance.

• The need for increased awareness and support within the educational system for young caregivers.

• The significance of community support in alleviating the burdens of caregiving.

• Health issues commonly experienced by young caregivers, such as anxiety and sleep deprivation.

• The importance of policy changes to accommodate the needs of young caregivers in schools.

• Resources and programs available for young caregivers, such as the Caregiving Youth Project.

• The potential long-term implications of caregiving experiences on children's futures and the healthcare workforce.

🛒 Products and Resources Mentioned:

• Caregiving Youth Project: https://aacy.org/what-we-do/caregiving-youth-project/

• Caregiving Youth Institute:  https://aacy.org/what-we-do/caregiving-youth-institute/

• Community Service Hours Program:  https://aacy.org/volunteer/

• Narcan (Naloxone):  https://amzn.to/4edbAme

• American Association of Caregiving Youth:  https://aacy.org/

• University of Miami Miller School of Medicine:https://med.miami.edu/

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