HOSPICE CARE

What Resources Support Caregivers?

Becoming the primary caregiver to an elderly person means taking on a big responsibility. Over time, that responsibility can grow as your loved one’s health begins to decline. You may be wondering what resources are available to support you at this time.

You may be surprised by just how many resources are available to primary caregivers. Let’s go over where you can find help taking care of your loved one.

1. Hospice. If your loved one has a terminal diagnosis and an estimated six months to live, they are eligible for hospice care, which will be covered by Medicare. If your loved one lives longer than six months, hospice can be renewed. Hospice care is mostly performed at the patient’s home, making for a smooth transition, and ensuring your loved one stays where they are comfortable. Some of the services hospice provides include in-home nursing care, symptom management, an in-home nursing aide, medical equipment and supplies, and advanced care planning. Patients can also benefit from counseling services, support groups, volunteers, and chaplains. Just by some of the work being taken off of your plate, hospice helps to support you as the primary caregiver. Hospice also provides services that directly support you. Grief counseling and bereavement services are available to you and other members of the family. You can also use a level of hospice care called respite care to take a break for a few days. Your loved one will be cared for in an inpatient facility while you take those days to recover or take care of other commitments.
2. Government resources. There are government resources at the national, state, and local levels for caregivers. For example, the Georgia Department of Human Services Division of Aging Services lists programs for information, health care, nutrition, legal assistance, respite care, telephone counseling and more. At the national level, there is the National Family Caregiver Support Program.
3. Non-profit organizations. Another source of support for caregivers is non-profit organizations. Contact local organizations to see which ones have programs to assist people who are caring for a loved one who is aging or who has a terminal diagnosis. You may be surprised at the resources that are available to you. Like government resources, non-profits that help caregivers may exist at the local, state and national levels. Examples of the types of services they offer include transportation, in-home care, meal deliveries, equipment, training, and counseling. Some may allow you to apply for financial support too.
4. Hospitals. Check with local hospitals to see what programs they offer caregivers. They may be able to help train you in medication management and other types of home care through educational classes or workshops. They could also offer caregiver support groups or even one-on-one counseling. In addition to respite care available through hospice, you may be able to access additional respite programs through a local hospital.
5. Social workers. Both hospice and hospitals can connect you with social workers. A social worker can assist you with navigating community programs, financial assistance, program referrals, education and training, and emotional support groups. They can also help you fill out paperwork for advance care planning.

Get Compassionate Support in Atlanta

Hospice can bring support and relief to your loved one, you, and your family. We can also help you identify and connect with other resources that can support you during this time as you care for your loved one. To learn how we can help, please give us a call at (404) 921-3341 to schedule your consultation. We work with patients and families throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area.