“sleep stories” that lull listeners before bedtime. A caregiver might consider playing a sleep story targeted to children for their child. Later they might play a sleep story for adults to themselves. Take it from a doctor—or an educator North Bay healthcare providers have a number of general and region-specific suggestions for caregivers. The first is caregivers should be cautious about using homeopathic remedies to relieve stress. “Some medicines may have value even if they’re not FDA- approved. But they could have side effects that might make things worse, like causing someone to frequently have to go to the bathroom. Some natural remedies contradict prescription and over- the-counter medicines,” says Habis. Habis says caregivers should talk to a homeopath about natural medicines and let their primary care physician know they are taking the substances. That way a patient gets an understanding of how the medicine is working from both providers. When it comes to resources for older adults, a caregiver should come to a hospital, nonprofit, senior center or private in-home respite company to ask about programs and eligibility. “There are numerous support groups for caregivers, from informal family and friend support groups that you create yourself to hospital and nonprofit-run programs. There are also programs at senior centers and the like where older adults can do everything from enjoy lunch together to learn how to prevent falls,” says Habis. Caregivers for children should ask their childcare providers and community nonprofits about help and resources available for families. Dennise Enriquez is the family and community engagement manager for Marin Child Care Council (MC3). The nonprofit offers a free service for all Marin families to help them find
Children and their parents interact at a Marin Child Care Council play group. [Photo courtesy Marin Child Care Council]
childcare providers near them. It offers vouchers for financial assistance for childcare. “Marin County also has the Adopt-a-Family program, where families can apply for up to $750 per family financial assistance for rent, groceries and other essential needs. In addition, here at Marin Child Care Council we have workshops on many topics, including infant brain development, computer literacy and “Know Your Rights” sessions for undocumented immigrants,” says Enriquez. Throughout the year, MC3 hosts several “Parents’ Cafe” where parents of young children come together to talk about common concerns in a safe and welcoming environment. “These are very popular with our community and open to all
THE BEST IN WINE COUNTRY GOLF u
September 2025
NorthBaybiz 35
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator