Caregiving is rewarding but comes at a cost; emotionally, physically, and financially. ADRC offers programs to help.
Research shows caregivers have higher stress levels than non-caregivers and are more likely to suffer health problems.
• Emotionally, they might feel frustrated, angry, drained, or helpless as a result of providing care.
• Physically, caregivers can experience anxiety, depression, trouble concentrating, along with new or worsening health problems. If left unchecked, as rewarding as caregiving can be, it can take a toll on your health, relationships, even your state of mind.
An AARP study in October 2019 found, on average, family caregivers spent an average of nearly $7,000 a year of their own money to care for their loved one.
ADRC has two programs to help Caregivers recharge, rejuvenate, and reconnect with life outside of their caregiving role, as well as some financial support to help make that happen.
• Alzheimer’s Family Caregiver Support Program (AFCSP) is for caregivers who’s loved one has a dementia diagnosis.
• National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) is for all other caregivers (60+) including grandparents and other relatives (55+) raising children or are primary caregivers to adults with disabilities (ages 19-59).
The purpose of these programs is to support the caregiver. Since caregiver’s needs are as individual as they are, you will work with staff to complete an individualized Needs Assessment to create a care-plan that works just for you and your current situation. If the situation changes, the care-plan can often be modified to meet the new needs.
As caregivers, we need to find the balance in our lives. Your ability to be an attentive, organized, compassionate caregiver will deteriorate without taking time for yourself. Taking time out for a break will be far better for you and your loved one.
For more information on these programs, refer to the Caregiver Section on our website or call ADRC at (920) 448-4300.
Source: Family Caregivers Face High Out-of-pocket Costs www.aarp.org
