Family members and friends are the sole caregivers for 70% of elderly people in the U.S. Caregivers are often torn between the responsibilities of raising their own families while taking care of an elderly parent who needs long-term medical care. If you find yourself part of the “sandwich generation” and need assistance, here’s a short list of resources that may offer some help.
- The Family Caregiver Alliance answers many questions about elder care, including tips for caregivers under stress and resources for seniors on a wide variety of topics.
- Meals on Wheels can assist with in-home delivery of hot meals for seniors who have trouble getting around.
- The Department of Housing and Urban Development offers help with locating senior citizen housing. Their list includes communities that serve the elderly and/or persons with disabilities.
- Alternatives For Seniors is a print and online directory that specifically caters to the housing and care concerns of senior citizens and their families.
- Benefits Checkup can help seniors determine their health benefits and apply for any programs they may qualify for. The site includes access to state, local, and federal benefit plans as well as prescription drug discount clubs and other support services.
- Eldercare Locator is a service of the federal government that can help you find health care providers in your area that specialize in geriatric care.
- Faith in Action brings together people of many faiths to help their neighbors in need. Volunteers shop, cook, drive or just check in on the millions of Americans with long-term health needs.
- The National Association for Home Care & Hospice is the nation’s largest trade association representing the interests and concerns of home care agencies, hospices, and home care aide organizations. They can help you locate a quality provider of long-term care in your area.
- ARCH National Respite Network can help caregivers in need of respite care connect with local resources. When you are responsible for taking care of a loved one, it’s easy to forget you also need to take care of yourself.
More links and resources on everything from housing and meals to health care and Social Security benefits can be found here.
