Caring for Caregivers
Everyone needs extra support once in a while. Created in 2000 to support family and informal (unpaid) caregivers in caring for their loved ones at home for as long as possible, the Family Caregiver Support Program aligns with other community-based services. Caregiving may place a heavy emotional, physical, social and financial load on those who take on caregiving responsibilities. Recognizing that you as a caregiver may experience a decline in your own health over time, the program aims to alleviate caregiver stress and burden, enabling you to continue supporting your loved one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Caregiver?
- Anyone can be a caregiver of an older or disabled adult who is 60 years old or older: daughters, sons, nieces, nephews, spouses, same-sex partners, close friends and neighbors OR
- A grandparent or relative who is at least 55 years of age and caring for a young child or an adult with a developmental disability OR
- A person caring for an individual with Alzheimer’s or related dementia
What Services Are Available?
Services may vary by county depending on the resources available in your community but generally include the following:
- Information and referral services
- Assistance in connecting you with supportive services
- Options or benefits counseling and support
- Education and training to help you make decisions and solve problems in your caregiving role, including online training platforms:
- GetSetUp – online interactions and videos to address social isolation and learn about issues with aging and caregiving
- NC Caregiver Portal Powered by Trualta – a caregiver education platform
- Building Better Caregivers Workshop- a 6-week evidence-based training
- Respite care in the form of in-home assistance, adult day care or group respite to provide you with temporary relief from caregiving duties
- Supplemental services to assist with caregiving as needed such as incontinence supplies, nutrition supplements, minor home modifications and assistive devices
Where Can I Find Services?
Contact your local Family Caregiver Support Program for more information.