Caregiver Support Services
Information and resources for caregivers providing support
Who are Family Caregivers?
A family caregiver is anyone who provides regular care for a relative, a partner or a friend. The amount of care that the family member or other individual provides may have increased over time, or they may have found themselves in that role suddenly, without notice. For many it is a labor of love, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. It is important to keep a balance between caring for another individual while caring for oneself.
The NH Family Caregiver Support Program
Through the National Family Caregiver Support Program, the Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services and the NH ServiceLink Resource Centers provide the following services for family caregivers:
- Information about community programs and local resources.
- Assistance in assessing individual caregiving needs, help in identifying options, and accessing local providers.
- Individual counseling and access to support groups.
- Education and training to help develop caregiving skills.
- Respite care services to provide a temporary break for eligible full time family caregivers.
- For some caregivers, there are limited services that complement the care the family caregiver is providing that may include chore services, assistive equipment, home modifications, and transportation services.
The services listed above are available to caregivers over 18 caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other related dementia, adults over 60, parents of adult children with disabilities, as well as grandparents and other relatives over age 55 who are raising their minor relatives.
Grandparents and Relatives Raising Children
Through the NH Family Caregiver Support Program eligible grandparents and relatives can receive respite services such as in-home childcare, after school programs and camps. There are limited funds for items such as school clothing and supplies.
In New Hampshire, there are more than 4,000 children living with grandparents without either parent present. There are over 2,300 children living in households headed by other relatives. Children and their caregivers are often eligible for state and federal benefits; however, finding those benefits can often be confusing and frustrating. This booklet can guide you in the right direction, help you ask the right questions, and help you find the answers you need.
For more information contact ServiceLink toll free at: 1-866-634-9412.