Neighbors helping Neighbors Did you know that the number of people living with a chronic illness or disability in our community is on the rise? There are many folks who need help with the very basics of everyday living. Certain pockets of our frail elderly are the most vulnerable, with no family or support system in the area. Family caregivers are also at risk, often neglecting their own health as they devote themselves to caring for an ill spouse or elderly parent. Parish Nursing Around the country, faith and health partnerships are changing the life of communities. Churches, hospitals, departments of health and social service agencies are working together on health issues of mutual concern. Alaska is a part of this exciting time. One example is the number of health and parish nurse ministries that are growing in Alaska. Almost 80 nurses have attended advanced training in parish nursing and provide some form of health ministry in their faith community. There are over 10,000 parish nurses in the U.S. If you have any questions or comments, or if you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact Linda Shepard at (907) 261-5053.
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