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Key Learnings
A network of services that goes beyond your core caregiving team of family and friends can be an invaluable resource and help you build your team, even if you don’t have family who are able or willing to help. By creating an expansive support system, you and your loved one can access a wide range of physical, mental and emotional assistance. A broad and diverse circle of services and professionals provides benefits such as:
- An added layer of physical and emotional support for you and your loved one
- Fresh perspectives and new problem-solving strategies
- Back-up assistance during unexpected situations and emergencies
- Opportunities for you and any other primary caregivers to take breaks and recharge
Recommended Steps
Contact Your HR Team: If you’re employed, ask about employer-provided caregiving support, such as access to eldercare referral networks or discounted home- and community-based services.
Evaluate Home Care Services: Your local area agency on aging and the Eldercare Locator (eldercare.acl.gov) can connect you to services such as adult day programs, meal delivery, transportation services, case management assistance and respite care.
Explore Community Groups: Reach out to local libraries, religious organizations, community centers and nonprofit organizations to see if they have assistance programs.
Consider Professional Help: Learn how social workers, nurses, home health aides, hospice or other professionals can help with caregiving duties and household tasks.
Search for Benefits or Financial Assistance: Ask if your loved one’s insurance will help pay for care.
Find out if your loved one qualifies for public benefits to help with expenses or support for veterans: Military veterans may be eligible for additional benefits.
Look into More Supportive Housing: If caregiving demands become too challenging to manage, assisted living, group homes and nursing care facilities can be potential solutions.
Tips for Success
- Be open to varying forms of support, including unconventional ones.
- Ask friends, family, neighbors and health care providers for suggestions.
- Reach out to national organizations and advocacy groups for assistance.
- Be ready to clearly state your loved one’s needs when someone offers to help.
- Explore online and digital resources, such as social media caregiver groups that can educate you about services and benefits and caregiving platforms that help you delegate tasks.
- Express gratitude to everyone who provides support.
- Regularly evaluate your network and look for ways to expand it.
