Here are four tools and organizations to help you and your congregation members enhance your knowledge about caregiving or initiate a program to assist caregivers.
Care Partner Toolkit
This online resource from POAMN and APCE launched in 2023. It includes information, ideas, and resource links to assist individuals in the role of care partner and help faith communities in supporting them. The information is designed to help people approach the role with confidence in bite sizes and remind them they are serving God in all they do for others. Quicksheets are available on multiple topics for both caregivers and congregations. Find it here on the POAMN website.
Your Local Area Agency on Aging
These branches of the U.S. Administration on Aging cover every community in the United States. Find the Area Agency on Aging that serves your county by visiting eldercare.acl.gov or calling 1-800-677-1116. Your local office can identify other services within your area that provide resources, programs, and lots of other help for caregivers.
The Alzheimer’s Association
Formed in 1980, the Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Visit www.alz.org or call the 24/7 helpline 1-800-272-3900.
AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability, and personal fulfillment. AARP has extensive resources available for caregivers to ease their journey of caring for a loved one at aarp.org/caregiving.
This article originally appeared in the 2024 Older Adult Ministry Planning Guide.