November is National Family Caregivers Month

More than 43 million people in the United States provide unpaid caregiving support for elderly adults and children who need help with day-to-day functioning. This can range from helping someone to get out of bed to medication management, taking loved ones to doctors’ appointments, and more.

Many caregivers often report feeling isolated and highly stressed by the daily responsibility. So, this month we seek to introduce different Boston area supports for caregivers in recognition of National Family Caregivers Month.  Listed below are resources and networks to help cope with the task of caring for your loved ones:

• The City of Boston’s Age Strong Commission offers a page of resources and a phone line at a 617-635-4366 to call for caregivers seeking help.  Be sure to explore all the different options. 
• The Family Caregiver’s Alliance is a large family caregiver network that helps with support and resources. Here is an aggregate they have provided of Massachusetts support networks by primary disability.  
• The Boston Family Caregiver Support Program assists with direct support and education for eligible families.  
• The Alzheimer’s Association offers a searchable database of support groups for caregivers of individuals suffering from Alzheimer's.   
• This helpful page lays out the differences between different forms of assisted living, from home care to nursing homes and respite.   

Even with the support that can come from these resources, caring for a sick or disabled loved one can be physically and emotionally exhausting.  Caregivers are always encouraged to refer to the caregiver bill of rights, a series of affirmations that allow you to feel emotionally honest about the challenges of being a caregiver.

Have a safe and restful November!