Caregiver Support

Description of Services:

Caregivers are faced with a host of new responsibilities many of which are unfamiliar and intimidating and can ultimately create caregiver burnout. As a result, the Caregiver Support Program is a short term program that provides assistance and support to these caregivers.

Respite Services (based on eligibility requirements)

• Brief period of relief for the caregiver
• Homemaking, home health aide, adult day care, short term stay in a nursing home

Supplemental Services (based on eligibility requirements)

• Supplies or equipment

Information and Assistance

• Provide caregivers with services and information available within the community
• Monthly newsletters, caregiver website, caregiver academy and other available training

Support Groups

• Monthly meetings with caregivers to discuss an assigned topic for that month pertaining to care giving as well as a forum to meet with peers in similar circumstances and learn from one another

Consultations

• Consult with the caregiver or families to help plan the care giving process and what to expect

The following specific populations of caregivers are eligible to receive services:

• Adult family members or other informal caregivers age 18 and older providing care to individuals 60 years of age and older
• Adult family members or other informal caregivers age 18 and older providing care to individuals of any age with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders
• Older relatives (not parents) age 55 and older providing care to children under the age of 18; and
• Older relatives, including parents, age 55 and older providing care to adults 18-59 with disabilities

Anyone is eligible for information and assistance, support groups and consultation.

There is no financial eligibility or fees required to participate with the Caregiver Support Program.

Caregiver Resources

In addition to the links and options offered here, we encourage you to call The Caregiver Support Program at (385) 468-3280 for one-on-one assistance in care planning and management. We also offer online support groups and education using WebEx.

• Caregiver Calendar
• Caregiver News
• Caregiver Emails
• Email Sign Up Link
• Managing Care Guide
• Gestión de Cuidados
• Creating Joy Booklet
• Caregiving in the Aftermath of COVID - AARP Teletown Hall

Education and Support Groups

• Caregiver Calendar
• Caregiver Breakfast Bunch
• The Joy Club
• Caregiver Academy
• Caregiver Talking Points
• Stress Busting - Dementia
• Stress Busting - Chronic Illness
• Senior Centers - Health Promotion & Dementia Classes
• Alzheimer's Education by Alz.org Utah

Resource Directories

• 55 Plus Senior Resource Directory
• 211 information or call 2-1-1
• Eldercare Locator or 1-800-677-1116
• Seniors Blue Book

Helpful Links

• Crisis Hotline
• Adult Protective Services or 1-800-371-7897
• AARP Caregiving Resources
• Alzheimer’s Caregiver Center
• Now Playing Utah
• SAGE @UtahPrideCenter
• USAging - Leaders in Aging Well at Home 

Contact Information

Volunteer Opportunities

Opportunities are varied and based upon the client’s needs. Volunteer responsibilities can increase as the volunteer and client become familiar with each other. If the volunteer has a car and agrees to transport the client, activities may include running errands, taking the client to appointments, helping the homebound get out of the house, shopping, etc. Other activities may include visiting and talking, cooking, light yard and house work, helping with phone calls, etc.

Volunteer Requirements

Pass an extensive background check and be at least 18 years of age (exceptions have been made for younger mature volunteers). Time commitments vary per client.

Training and Support

Orientation on a personal basis is provided depending on what duty(s) the volunteer performs. Ongoing support is provided through email, phone, and personal contact as needed.

Contact

Contact Cyd Goodman at 385.468.3283 or cydgoodman@slco.org to learn more about volunteering with in-home services. 

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