Caring for Aging Loved Ones: Resources for Family Caregivers

As we get older, so do our parents and other loved ones. Over time, they may need more help with everyday activities, transportation, medical appointments, meals, finances, or other aspects of daily life. For family members stepping into a caregiving role, it can be difficult to know where to begin.

Caregiving can feel daunting and overwhelming. In addition to the time and energy involved in caring for someone, families may also find themselves trying to navigate unfamiliar healthcare systems, community programs, insurance requirements, and senior services. Figuring out what help is available can become another responsibility on an already long list.

Fortunately, there are a number of local and statewide organizations that can help and they are provided in the list below. Some provide caregiver education and support, while others offer case management, respite care, transportation, meal programs, or assistance finding services. Learning about these resources and making use of the support available can make the caregiving role much easier to navigate.

It is also important for caregivers to pay attention to their own well-being. Caring for an aging loved one can be rewarding, but it can also take an emotional and physical toll. Caregivers often put their own needs aside while focusing on the person they are helping.

If you have connected with available caregiving resources and still feel overwhelmed, talking with a counselor may help. Counseling can provide a place to work through stress, establish healthy boundaries, and find ways to balance caring for a loved one with taking care of yourself.

Here are some organizations that can help caregivers access the help and information they need when caring for an aging loved one:

Idaho Commission on Aging

The Idaho Commission on Aging provides programs and resources designed to help older adults remain independent and continue living in their homes and communities. It also offers information and assistance for families caring for individuals with dementia and other age-related needs.

Idaho Caregiver Alliance

The Idaho Caregiver Alliance provides educational materials, caregiver support, and information about caregiving resources throughout Idaho. The organization also offers a free caregiver navigator service that can help caregivers develop an individualized care plan and connect with appropriate programs and services. The project is funded through Medicaid and is available at no cost to caregivers.

Southwest Idaho Area Agency on Aging

The Southwest Idaho Area Agency on Aging (SWIAAA) serves Boise and surrounding communities and offers a variety of programs for older adults and family caregivers. Services may include caregiver support, respite care, transportation assistance, meal programs, and connections to other community resources. SWIAAA also offers the Community Care Program, which provides free case-management services for caregivers of individuals experiencing memory concerns, dementia, or Alzheimer's disease. Community Care Managers can help assess a caregiver's needs, identify appropriate local resources, develop a plan for support, and provide ongoing assistance as needs change.

AARP Idaho Caregiver Resources

AARP Idaho provides information about local agencies, organizations, programs, and services available to family caregivers. Its caregiver resource guide can be a helpful starting point for families who are unsure where to turn for assistance.

Seniors Blue Book

Seniors Blue Book provides a free directory of senior services and caregiver resources in the Treasure Valley. The directory includes information about senior housing, home care, healthcare services, and other senior services and caregiving resources. Caregivers can also connect online with a resource specialist for help identifying services that may meet their family's needs.

Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare offers Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) through Medicaid for eligible individuals who need assistance while continuing to live in their homes or communities. Depending on eligibility and individual needs, services may include case management and assistance coordinating in-home care and other supports.

Dementia and Alzheimer's Resources

Alzheimer's Association

The Alzheimer's Association provides education, support, and resources for people living with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia, as well as their caregivers, families, and friends. Its ALZConnected online community gives people affected by dementia a place to connect with others, share experiences, and find support.

The Alzheimer's Association also offers caregiver support groups. Local and online groups can be found through its events page.

Alzheimer's Foundation of America

The Alzheimer's Foundation of America offers free Alzheimer's and dementia support groups facilitated by licensed social workers. The organization also provides educational and caregiving resources for families affected by dementia.

Alzheimer's Association – Idaho Chapter

The Alzheimer's Association Idaho Chapter provides education, support groups, caregiver resources, and assistance for Idaho families affected by Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. The Alzheimer's Association operates a 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900 for people seeking information, support, or help locating resources.

You Don't Have to Navigate Caregiving Alone

Caring for an aging parent or loved one can bring changes that no family feels completely prepared for. Asking for help does not mean you are doing less for the person you care about. In many cases, connecting with the right resources can allow caregivers to spend less time trying to coordinate services and more time being present with their loved one.

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