The National Family Caregiver Support Program offers caregivers a much-needed break to rest and recharge, both physically and emotionally. The program provides funding for a range of services that support family members and other unpaid caregivers. This includes those caring for older adults, grandparents and older relatives raising grandchildren, and parents caring for an adult child with a disability.
Program Services
Services are coordinated by staff at the Area Agencies on Aging. They assess each caregiver’s situation, determine eligibility, and help identify what services may be available through the National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP). Priority for respite care and purchase of items is based on several factors, including the care recipient’s income and level of need.
Services include
- Information and assistance to help connect caregivers to services to ease the burden of caregiving.
- Offers short-term respite services so that caregivers can get the time and the rest they deserve.
- Training opportunities for caregivers to equip them with technical skills to provide needed care.
- Connecting caregivers to area support groups.
- Purchasing items and services not covered by other sources, as determined by the case manager.
Eligibility
To receive assistance, both the caregiver and the person receiving care must meet certain eligibility requirements. The person needing care must have an identified caregiver, and one of the following criteria must apply:
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Adult family members or informal caregivers (age 18 or older) who care for someone age 60 or older.
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Adult family members or informal caregivers (age 18 or older) who care for someone of any age with Alzheimer’s disease or a related disorder.
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Grandparents or other relatives (age 55 or older) who are raising children under the age of 18.
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Grandparents or other relatives (age 55 or older) who care for an adult with a disability between the ages of 18 and 59.
National Family Caregiver Support Program Brochure
Contact
Contact the Area Agency on Aging in your area either by calling 1-800-994-9422 (in CT) or by visiting their website.