Are you or someone you know caring for a loved one? If so:
• Could you use a break or help around the house?
• Could you use help to pay for their care of for the cost for you to “get away”?
If you answered “yes” to either of these questions, we encourage you to keep reading. At the end of this article, if you see yourself or someone you know in these situations, call ADRC and ask about the programs available to caregivers.
Example #1
Jane is a working caregiver who takes care of her older brother, Jim. Since Jane qualifies for a funding program, she can hire someone she trusts to spend time with Jim during the workday.
Sometimes, this person will stay at home with Jim, but they also take outings like to the Railroad Museum, a trip to feed the ducks, walk some nature trails, etc. Jane knows her brother is being cared for in her absence and Jim gets companionship along with fun outings that he can share with Jane over dinner.
Example #2
Constance is 79 years old and still lives in the home she raised her family in. She was recently diagnosed with Dementia. Gary, her son, is juggling a business and a family of his own. He tries to get over to his mom’s home to mow the lawn before it gets too long
Gary is eligible for a program that supports caregivers whose loved one has a dementia diagnosis, and uses it to hire a lawn service to come on a weekly basis to take care of the necessary yard work. This allows Gary the opportunity to visit with his mom instead of taking the same time to do this chore.
Example #3
Sarah is in a bind. She cares for her husband who has significant health needs. She has an upcoming surgery and will need time away from the caregiver role to heal. Sarah’s granddaughter would love to come help but can’t afford to go without a paycheck.
Sarah calls ADRC and learns of a program that would reimburse her if she would like to pay her granddaughter during this time.
These are only a few examples of how these programs can help.
Almost every person seeking assistance from ADRC has a family caregiver who helps manage daily activities. Ensuring that caregivers have access to education and supports they need is vitally important to their own health and the health of the person under their care.
Research has shown that caregivers have higher stress levels than non-caregivers and they are more likely to suffer health problems. Providing access to services that keep caregivers healthy improves their ability to provide better care for their loved one.
Each family will work with staff to complete a Needs Assessment and create a care plan that addresses their individual needs.
ADRC has information about these and other available programs to help you offset the cost of care and provide you with respite (a break from caregiving) when needed. We encourage you to call ADRC at (920) 448-4300 to learn about available caregiver programs and find out which one best meets your needs!
