Holy See urges more aid for home-based caregivers

(March, 10, 2009): Those who care for the sick in homes need more training, funds and support, said Holy See’s Permanent Observer to the United Nations. In an address to the U.N. Economic and Social Council in New York on Sat. Archbishop Celestino Migliore spoke on the theme of the Conference - “Equal sharing of responsibilities between women and men, including care-giving in the context of HIV/AIDS.” He stressed that community-based care and worldwide support for those suffering from this disease remain essential. He said - "Home-based care is the preferred means of care in many social and cultural settings, and is often more sustainable and successful over the long term, when based within communities. In fact, when many members of a community are involved in care and support, there is less likely to be stigma associated with the disease," he added.
However, Archbishop Migliore lamented that community and home-based care is largely unrecognized, and many caregivers face precarious financial situations." Studies have shown, he noted that community and home-based caregivers actually experience more stress than medical personnel, so better support must be provided for these persons, particularly women and older persons who are caregivers.”
Archbishop Migliore also lamented the brain drain in developing countries, noting that talented and skilled human capital, especially in the health sector, leave for better economic opportunities in rich countries. He said that these skilled members must be provided suitable incentives to serve in their own countries.