Many relatives take on the responsibility of caring for an aging or disabled loved one. It’s not an easy task. A family caregiver often feels the burden of juggling care with other aspects of life. They may feel depressed, isolated, and stressed out. Fortunately, various resources provide support. Here are a few that may provide the assistance you require.
Resources Every Family Caregiver Should Know About
Caring for a loved one often requires more than personal dedication and time. Many family caregivers are unaware of the programs, services, and financial assistance available to support them in their role. Knowing where to turn for help can reduce stress, improve care quality, and prevent caregiver burnout.
Caregiver Support Program
The Caregiver Support Program is administered by the Agency on Aging. It offers family caregivers respite care, training, education, benefits counseling, and reimbursement for relevant out-of-pocket expenses. Caregivers who enroll are assigned a case manager who comes to the home, assesses the caregiving situation, and creates a plan customized to the family’s needs.
To be eligible, the person receiving care must be 60 or over and the caregiver must be 18 or over. Plans are also available to people of any age with a cognitive disorder. You don’t need specific income requirements to be eligible, but your income will affect reimbursement amounts.
Eldercare Locator
The Eldercare Locator is a website supported by the United States Administration on Aging. Enter your zip code and it will connect you with services for older adults. It also provides information about support services, housing, elder rights, insurance and benefits, transportation for the elderly, health information, and helpful resources.
Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE)
LIFE is a Medicare/Medicaid-sponsored program that provides services to seniors with health issues who wish to live independently. It is typically free for anyone 55 and over who is eligible for Medicaid or Medicare. It offers free prescription drugs, a care team to provide home services, medical care, access to a day center where seniors can eat and participate in activities, and free transportation to the day center and medical facilities.
Department of Human Services
The DHS provides care services to seniors and disabled individuals. The agency offers various programs but Community Health Choices may be most valuable to older individuals. It provides long-term home care. Expenses are covered through Medicaid.
Aurora Can Provide Help for a Family Caregiving
Aurora is an agency that can train loved ones to care for elderly and disabled relatives. We can help you qualify for the Medicare waiver which allows individuals to receive the care they need in the comfort of their homes. We also provide a team of caring compassionate caregivers who provide various types of care for seniors, children, vets, and disabled individuals. Contact us when you need help.
