Delaware Transitions launches updated website

Delaware Transitions announced the relaunch of a support website for individuals and their family caregivers who are coping with a serious illness. For almost 15 years, Delaware Transitions, a service of Delaware Hospice, has been providing nonmedical services to Delaware. Unique to Delaware, the program is offered at no cost to individuals and families coping with a life-limiting illness.

The website contains educational articles addressing medical concerns, emotional and spiritual issues, and important legal and financial decisions. It also includes an online directory listing both local and national services, from those that help with the costs of medicines to insurance counseling, support groups, transportation services, and in-home healthcare. The website even offers a free e-newsletter with monthly articles filled with tips and resources to make family caregiving easier.

"Caring for a relative with a serious illness can be one of the most stressful times in a family's journey together," said Kristy Handley, Delaware Transitions senior coordinator. "But it can also be one of the most intimate and meaningful experiences. We updated this website to provide insight and practical information which can make the family's burden much easier."

Family caregivers suffer from increased incidence of depression, isolation and financial hardships that result from the sacrifices they make to provide the needed care and support. "As a society, we are deeply indebted to the family caregiver," said Handley. "These people need help to do what they do. They need information and they need support services. The irony is, support programs are available, but caregivers don't know where to turn to find out about them. That's where Delaware Transitions can help."

For more information or resources to support a family member who is seriously ill, call 1-800-838-9800 or go to www.delawaretransitions.org.