Blog: Recognizing the Value of Respite for Caregivers

By Greg Link, Aging Services Program Specialist, Administration for Community Living

Each November, we recognize family caregivers for all they do to ensure the health, safety, and dignity of the people they care for. Family caregivers are the social and economic underpinning of America’s long-term care system. Without them, the burden of providing care likely would fall upon the formal, more costly healthcare delivery system, and many people who otherwise could remain in their homes and communities would have to live in institutional settings. Supporting caregivers is critical—and a key part of ACL’s mission.

We know that caregiving can take a toll, and it is important that caregivers receive support to help them continue providing care while maintaining their own well-being. Created in 2000, the National Family Caregiver Support Program is central to ACL’s efforts to support families caring for of older people and people with dementia, as well as grandparents raising grandchildren and other people caring for relatives’ children. The program offers a variety of services, including respite care, information about available services and assistance in accessing them, individual counseling, organization of support groups, and caregiver training. With funding from this program, states and communities can effectively target and meet diverse caregiver support needs. [MORE]

Stories from the National Family Caregiver Support Program

Caregiver Dances at Daughter’s Wedding

Caregiver Dances at Daughter's Wedding

Eric and his wife, Jodi, have been caring for Eric’s 91-year-old mother, Darlene, for nearly five years. Darlene has a number of medical conditions that require someone be with her at all times. Eric, Jodi, and other family members make sure Darlene is never alone.

When Eric’s daughter scheduled her wedding, Eric called the Caregiver Support Program. He was worried he wouldn’t be able to attend because his mother cannot be left alone. After talking with a coordinator about his options, Eric applied for caregiver support. As a result, the family welcomed temporary help to stay with Darlene so the other family members could attend the wedding.

Click here to finish reading this story as well as other caregiver stories.