The Massachusetts Family Caregiver Support Program empowers caregivers through information, education, support, and services that help enhance their quality of life. Caregivers may experience physical, emotional, and financial strain while caring for a loved one. With this in mind, the Commonwealth offers support resources to ease those stresses and reduce the challenges of caregiving.

Care for the Caregiver

Whether you are just beginning a caregiving role or continuing to care for an older person whose needs are increasing, it’s important to  take care of your own physical and mental health. Remember to recharge and take time for yourself. Rest, maintain healthy eating habits, get enough sleep each night, exercise, and communicate your needs to others when in need of help. Additionally, choose a support group that works to provide education and information to caregivers.

Elder Care

• Assess the warning signs– Look for changes in behavior as your loved ones age, such as difficulty concentrating or personality changes. These can signal a need for help.
• Improve home safety – Use our home safety self-assessment checklist to determine how ‘elder-friendly’ your residence is to prevent accidents.
• Have medical information ready – Gather the top 10 pieces of information you will need in case of a medical emergency, such as prior surgeries or allergies.  Doctors or medics will be able to quickly take the proper precautions while administering the best care possible.
• Monitor nutrition – If an elder is not eating enough, follow tips to encourage appetite, exercise, and nutrition.
• Be prepared for doctor visits – Keep a list of questions or any updated information with a reminder sheet for doctor’s visits.

Caregiving Resources

• National Family Caregiver Support Program – Increases access to community supports and provides links to useful websites for family caregivers.
• AARP Caregiver Resource Center – Gives information, tools, and tips for caregivers.
• National Alliance for Caregiving – Conducts research, develops national best-practice programs, and works to increase public awareness of family caregiving issues.
• National Hospice and Palliative Care Federation of Massachusetts – Advocates for members, patients, and families to receive excellent end of life care through education, information access, and awareness efforts.
• Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association – Helps caregivers find local support group information and education.
• Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation – Presents legal information and resources for low income Massachusetts residents.

While caregivers can find joy in helping a loved one in their time of need, they often face various strains and challenges along the way. That’s why it’s crucial to remind caregivers to take time for themselves through the resources and support available. Remember to look after those administering care to make sure they are not only properly looking after loved ones, but also themselves.

What are your tips or advice for the caregivers in your life? Tell us in the comments below or tweet us @MassGov.

Tags: caregiver, caregiver services, caregiver support, elder affairs, elder services, elderly support