Being a caregiver to a loved one with dementia requires a high degree of dedication and selflessness as well as a tremendous amount of patience. Caring for someone with this condition can mean spending hours taking them to various appointments and keeping up with their medication and health care needs while providing a safe and loving home. A person in this role must also attend to their own needs. With all of these duties and responsibilities, it is common for caregivers to experience emotional fatigue and stress. Fortunately, there are dementia support programs for caregivers in this situation.
Michigan State Support Services
Michigan caregivers can utilize support services through the Michigan Department on Aging. This department has created various programs to help residents such as training, support groups, adult day programs, respite services, and counseling. Additionally, the department offers a free program called “Creating Confident Caregivers” which imparts information and provides resources to families providing care for a loved one with dementia.
Community Support Programs
The Alzheimer’s Association and other similar organizations offer resources and support which are specifically designed to meet the needs of caregivers for this population. They provide services such as area support groups where caregivers can find out information and gain empathy and encouragement from similarly situated individuals in their community.
Area Religious Organizations
Local religious organizations may have programs available to support caregivers such as respite and emotional support groups. Additionally, these entities may offer social opportunities and activities for caregivers and their loved one.
Non-Profit Organizations
Non-profit groups which are devoted to assisting those with dementia and their families can ordinarily be located online or in local areas. These organizations may offer training and support to those in the caregiving role. In Michigan for example, the Michigan Family Caregiver Alliance provides a Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP) through local agencies. The FCSP offers individual counseling, information, assistance, support groups, training, and respite care in addition to other services.
There are several helpful resources available for those individuals who have taken on the caregiving role. Our office understands the challenges which come with being a caregiver to a loved one with dementia and can direct you to resources which can help. Please contact us online or by phone if we may be of assistance.