Chronic illness often a taboo subject: Survey
October 21st, 2007From the Atlanta Journal Constitution:
Along with taboo topics such as politics and religion, many Americans are reluctant to discuss managing a chronic illness with family or friends, according to a new survey of more than 1,000 adults.
The survey … found that 82 percent of respondents said they knew someone with a chronic illness, but only 34 percent were likely to suggest ways for this person to better manage their care. That’s about the same number who said they’d debate politics (37 percent) or religion (33 percent) with a loved one or friend.
Respondents were more likely to discourage friends or loved ones from buying the wrong house (65 percent), loan them a large amount of money (56 percent), advise them against taking a job they didn’t think was right for the person (48 percent), and tell them their spouse was unfaithful (41 percent).
The survey was released by Evercare, a provider of health plans for people who have chronic illnesses, are older, or have disabilities. Evercare offered tips on how to help family or friends with a chronic illness:
- Talk to them in order to get an understanding of their goals;
- Work with an intermediary — someone your friend or loved one trusts and feels comfortable with;
- Increase your comfort level by learning more about your friend’s condition.
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on Sunday, October 21st, 2007 at 8:45 am and is filed under chronic illness, public attitudes, tips & wisdom.
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