Family caregivers are the heart of our communities, providing vital support to aging loved ones — and TARCOG’s Alabama Cares program is here to help.
Across the state, AARP estimates there are 1.1 million unpaid caregivers. That’s about 28 percent of Alabama’s adult population. Director of Aging Programs Sheila Dessau-Ivey said caregivers give so much to their loved ones, but there comes a time when they need support, too.
As part of the National Family Caregiver Support Program, Alabama Cares is dedicated to empowering family caregivers.
“This program supports caregivers of frail older adults, grandparents raising grandchildren, and older relatives caring for adults with disabilities,” Sheila said. “Alabama Cares provides essential services: information on resources, support groups, assistance, respite care, counseling, training, and supplemental services.”
At TARCOG, Lydia Weeks serves as the Alabama Cares coordinator. She works one-on-one with clients and goes out into the community to provide educational programs through workshops and Virtual Dementia Tours. This month, she has organized a Caregiver College for about 300 caregivers from across the region in recognition of National Family Caregivers Month. The event will be held Friday, Nov. 21, from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Huntsville Marriott at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.
“We prioritize caregivers with the greatest social and economic needs, ensuring that income is not a disqualifier,” Sheila said. “We encourage anyone in our region who is a caregiver to reach out to Alabama Cares for support.”
The program provides information on support groups, counseling, and available respite services that give caregivers a much-needed break.
“Together, we can ensure caregivers get the support they need to care for their loved ones — and themselves,” Sheila said.
For more information on Alabama Cares, visit www.tarcog.us or call 256-830-0818.
Lydia Weeks serves as the TARCOG Alabama Cares coordinator