Disabilities affect entire families

Disabilities affect entire families -
Over 54 million Americans have a disability, so the likelihood of caring for a brother with special needs or disabilities is high . According to the brothers and sisters Easter Seals study sponsored by MassMutual, only a third of respondents feel financially prepared to assume the responsibilities of being the role.
"There is an undeniable link between siblings, which can be particularly close when you have special needs, but this relationship has a unique set of circumstances and a great responsibility, "says Joanne Gruszkos, founder and director of the SpecialCare program, MassMutual." to the brothers and nursing sisters, it is essential not only to set realistic expectations, but also prepare financially, emotionally and physically. "
commissioned in 2012, the brothers study and Easter Seals sisters revealed insecurity and caregivers siblings potential costs faced throughout their lives.

• 60% wish they knew more about care planning and finances of their brothers and sisters.
• 40% say caring for a brother with a disability caused financial stress on families.
• 29% spend up to 20 hours per week providing care

"The results help us shape our support to families caring for a disabled person and raise awareness on challenges caregivers face, "says Patricia Wright, National Director of Easter Seals autism services." There are more than 65 million family caregivers in the United States and the brothers and study sisters paints a better idea of ​​their needs, particularly those who care for a brother. "
These 65 million people-29% of the US population, provide care a family member of the chronically ill, disabled or elderly or friend during any given year and spend an average of 20 hours per week providing care to their loved ones, according to the study "Caregiving in the US "by the national Alliance for Caregiving in collaboration with AARP, November 09.
If you want to make sure you will not become a burden to your brothers and sisters, take personal financial responsibility and make sure that you took advantage of disability insurance through your employer and / or have purchased individual disability insurance from your insurance agent or financial advisor.