A caregiver is a family member or close friend who has taken responsibility for the physical and emotional needs – and sometimes the financial affairs – of a person who cannot entirely care for him or herself because of advanced age, illness, dementia, or disability.

A caregiver can also be someone that the family hires to provide care and/or to assist the primary caregiver.

Caregivers may have a range of responsibilities from attending to a person's physical needs, including preparing meals and helping the person bathe and dress, to logistical tasks such as driving the person to the doctor, buying groceries, and keeping the home clean.

In the United States, approximately 80 percent of long-term care for the elderly and disabled is done in the home by a family member or close friend. It is estimated that over 44 million people in the U.S. serve as unpaid caregivers. The value of that unpaid care is estimated at $375 billion a year.

The role of a caregiver can be extremely difficult. Caregivers often feel overwhelmed, resentful, and even depressed. Therefore, learning good self-care and reaching out for support are essential for caregivers. In the best of circumstances, taking care of a loved one can be rewarding and meaningful, as well as challenging.

Jefferson County Office For the Aging Programs for Caregivers:

In- Home Respite Services: You may be eligible for respite services through our EISEP program! Respite services provided the caregiver with the opportunity to spend time away from the home while knowing their loved one is well taken care of. 

Home Modification: With our Home Modification Reimbursement Program, you could be eligible to receive up to $500 for the necessary repairs and remodeling you have made to your home

Personal Emergency Response: Medical Alert 24-hour emergency helpline. When the button on your wrist or on your necklace is pressed, you are called, and then the authorities send the help you need.

STAT Communications: 315-782-7453

Phillips Lifeline: 1-451-0525 ext. 1931

Response4Help: 1-855-319-4357

Medical Adult Day Care: For individuals that live at home, but require restorative support services and socialization: Samaritan Day Health 315-785-4492

Additional Links:

Alzheimer's Association Caregiver Support: https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving

Parkinson's Foundation: https://www.parkinson.org/Living-with-Parkinsons/For-Caregivers