Senior caregiving is a complex and demanding experience that can significantly impact the caregiver. The need for senior caregiving resources is becoming increasingly important as our aging population continues to grow.
Fortunately, many resources are available to support senior caregivers, which we will discuss in this article.
Common Senior Caregiving Resources
Support groups
These groups are a great way for caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges. Support groups can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community to those who are caregiving.
Here is a list of senior caregiving support groups and resources:
Alzheimer’s Association Support Groups
Alzheimer’s Association support groups offer a safe, understanding environment for caregivers and individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Caregiver Action Network Support Groups
Caregiver Action Network offers online and in-person support groups for family caregivers, support, and resources through their website and helpline.
AARP Caregiving Support Groups
AARP offers online and in-person caregiving support groups, resources, and information on caregiving through its website.
Elders Together Support Groups
Elders Together provides support groups for older adults and their caregivers, as well as information and resources on aging and caregiving.
National Family Caregivers Association Support Groups
National Family Caregivers Association offers support and resources for family caregivers, including support groups and an online community.
Family Caregiver Alliance Support Groups
Family Caregiver Alliance offers support groups for caregivers of those with chronic, disabling health conditions and information and resources on caregiving.
These support groups can provide a valuable source of emotional support, information, and resources for caregivers of older adults.
Respite care
Programs for respite care provide temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to take a break from caregiving responsibilities and attend to their needs. Respite care can be provided in the home or a care facility, ranging from a few hours to several days.
Here is a list of senior caregiving respite care resources and organizations:
National Respite Locator Service
The National Respite Locator Service provides information on respite care programs and resources, including those available in your area.
Family Caregiver Alliance Respite Care
Family Caregiver Alliance provides information and resources on respite care options, including in-home care, adult day services, and facility-based care.
National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a)
The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging is a network of over 600 local aging programs that provide a range of services, including respite care, to older adults and their caregivers.
VA Respite Care is available to eligible veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs, providing short-term relief to primary caregivers.
Medicare provides information on respite care coverage, including what is covered and what is not covered by Medicare.
Medicaid provides information on respite care services for individuals who are eligible for Medicaid, including those who are elderly or have disabilities.
These organizations and resources can provide valuable information and support on respite care options for caregivers of older adults.
Professional care
Professional care services, such as home health aides or nursing services, can provide caregivers additional support and help care recipients receive the medical care they need.
Here is a list of professional senior caregiving resources:
National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers
The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers represents geriatric care managers and provides information on finding a qualified care manager in your area.
A Place for Mom Senior Care Advisor
A Place for Mom Senior Care Advisor is a resource that provides information on senior living options and helps connect families with local senior care providers.
ElderCare.gov is a resource the Administration on Aging provides information on a wide range of elder care services, including professional care options.
Home Care Association of America
The Home Care Association of America represents home care agencies and provides information on home care services and finding a qualified provider.
Visiting Nurse Associations of America
The Visiting Nurse Associations of America is a national network of non-profit home health and hospice organizations that provide professional care to older adults in their homes.
National Association of Home Care & Hospice
The National Association of Home Care & Hospice is a professional organization representing home care and hospice agencies and providing information on finding a qualified provider.
These organizations and resources can provide valuable information and support in finding and selecting professional care options for older adults.
Government programs
Many government programs are designed to support senior caregiving, including Medicaid, Medicare, and the Older Americans Act. These programs provide financial assistance and access to services that can help seniors receive the care they need.
Here is a list of government programs for senior caregiving:
The Older Americans Act is a federal law that provides funding for various services to older adults, including home-delivered and congregate meals, caregiver support, and in-home services.
Medicaid is a joint federal-state program that provides health coverage to eligible individuals, including older adults who need long-term care.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people 65 or older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease.
The VA provides various benefits and services to eligible veterans, including health care, long-term care, and caregiver support.
Social Security is a federal program that gives retirement, disability, and survivor benefits to eligible individuals, including those who are elderly and require care.
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
HUD provides a range of housing options and services for older adults, including supportive housing and reverse mortgages.
These government programs provide financial and practical support to older adults and their caregivers, offering various services and benefits to help meet their needs.
Non-profit organizations
Non-profit organizations, such as the National Association of Caregiving and AARP, offer resources and support to caregivers, including information on government programs, support groups, and caregiving strategies.
Here is a list of non-profit organizations for senior caregiving:
National Council on Aging (NCOA)
The National Council on Aging is a non-profit organization that provides resources and support to older adults and their caregivers, including information on health and wellness, financial security, and caregiving.
National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA)
The National Family Caregivers Association is a non-profit organization that provides support, education, and resources to family caregivers, including those caring for older adults.
The Alzheimer’s Association is a non-profit organization that provides support, resources, and education to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers.
Area Agencies on Aging are non-profit organizations that provide services and support to older adults and their caregivers in their local communities.
Meals on Wheels America is a non-profit organization that provides nutritious meals, safety checks, and companionship to older adults who cannot leave their homes.
These non-profit organizations provide a wide range of services and support to older adults and their caregivers, including education, resources, and practical assistance to help meet their needs.
Resources For Family Caregivers
Family caregivers also need a lot of support and access to different resources that can aid them in caring for their older loved ones since caregiving is a challenging job that compromises a lot of their time.
Here is a list of resources that support family caregivers:
AARP Caregiving is a resource provided by the AARP that offers information, support, and resources to family caregivers.
The Family Caregiver Alliance is a non-profit organization that provides support, resources, and advocacy for family caregivers.
Eldercare Locator is a U.S. Administration on Aging public service that connects family caregivers with local resources and support.
Caregiver Action Network (CAN)
The Caregiver Action Network is a non-profit organization that provides support, education, and resources to family caregivers.
Home Instead Senior Care Foundation
The Home Instead Senior Care Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides support, resources, and education to family caregivers.
These resources provide support, education, and practical assistance to family caregivers, helping them to meet the needs of their loved ones and care for themselves.
Bottomline
Caregivers need to seek resources and aides as they care for their loved ones, as caregiving can be physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding. These resources can provide caregivers with the information, support, and resources they need to care for their loved ones while also taking care of themselves.
Whether you’re a seasoned caregiver or just starting, it’s important to understand the resources available and reach out for help when needed. With the right support, you can ensure that you and your loved one receive the care and help you need.
To know more about senior caregiving, visit our Caregiving For Senior: An Overview article.