January 4th, 2023
We know that caring for an aging parent, spouse or other loved one can be tough. We also know a little bit of help can go a long way. We put together a list of support resources available in our 6- county region of southeast Michigan to help spark some ideas:
Having a hot meal and a friendly visit for your loved one on weekdays might do a lot to lighten your caregiving load. To qualify, your loved one must be 60+ and homebound (cannot leave the home without assistance). There is no cost, but voluntary donations are appreciated. Find the AgeWays provider serving your community. Bonus: Caregivers who are there caring for their loved one can also get a meal!
Adult Day centers provide regular respite care for people who have memory loss or cannot be left unsupervised. Having regular, out-of-home care can be a huge help to working caregivers, but it can also help caregivers who need a regular break to run errands, take care of their own needs, or have some time to themselves. Many adult day centers are operated by nonprofit organizations and may offer reduced costs based on income. Find an adult day center near you. Bonus: Your loved one will likely love it, too. Days at adult day centers are filled with enjoyable activities, socialization and fun. (Think music, art, and games.)
We manage two government-funded programs that bring care into the home for those who qualify. The MI Choice Medicaid Waiver program is offered for people 65 and over, as well as younger adults with a disability. Your loved one will need to meet income requirements and also require a nursing-home level of care. Other in-home support options may be available through our other state-funded care program (including respite care). Visit our In-Home Care page for more information and eligibility guidelines. Bonus: Our MI Choice program allows some participants to choose a “self-determination” model that can pay a family caregiver for care.
We help fund volunteer caregiver programs that provide occasional respite care for a few hours. Programs available through Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers (in Macomb, Oakland and St. Clair counties), Livingston County Catholic Charities, Monroe County Opportunity Program, and Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw County. Bonus: These programs are no cost.
This free AgeWays program provides matches you with a trained volunteer coach for personalized 1-on-1 support. Coaches can help you find resources, work through options and be a listening ear. You can meet with your coach by phone or online. See our Caregiver Coaching page for more information. Bonus: This program is flexible. You set the schedule, and you can meet with your coach as often or as little as you’d like.
Care Academy is a free, online education portal for people caring for an aging or chronically ill loved one. You can access videos, articles and online courses on caregiving. AgeWays is offering free, one-year access for family caregivers throughout our six-county region. Register for Care Academy online. Bonus: The flexible, online format lets you move through information at your own pace, whenever you have the time.
A free, 6-week class that can help caregivers cope with the difficult emotions that sometimes come with caregiving. Classes meet once a week for 1.5 hours and take place online or in-person at community venues throughout our 6-county region. Find out more about the Powerful Tools for Caregivers class. Bonus: The small group setting will let you get to know and share ideas with other caregivers.
If you’re caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia, connecting with this organization is a must. The organization has lots of information and knowledge to share, along with support groups, social groups and a scholarship that can help with respite care expenses. Visit the Alzheimer’s Association website for all their offerings. Bonus: Their 24/7 helpline means you have someone to reach out to—even in the middle of the night. (800) 272-3900.
Helps older adults who have been the victims of scams or identity theft. Also provides financial education for older adults and family caregivers. Visit the IOG SAFE webpage to learn more. Bonus: Their Financial First Fridays webinar series covers different financial topics. Webinars happen the first Friday of each month. Recording of past webinars available on the website.
Our Information & Assistance team can help connect older adults and family caregivers to more resources. You can call them at (800) 852-7795, Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm. You can also browse our online resource list on our Caregiver Resources page.
