Every day, about 48 million U.S. adults are assisting their older relatives, spouses, friends, or neighbors with daily tasks like medication management, light housework, and transportation to medical appointments. It can be hard to find local resources, and even harder for the caregiver to take care of themselves.
So far, the Caregiver Support Program we support with AARP has connected 1.3 million family caregivers to the services and support they need. More than 235,000 caregivers have gotten that help through 211, a 24/7 helpline (supported by United Way) that connects people with resources in their community.
The program takes a holistic approach, addressing caregiving-related concerns and challenges many caregivers face, such as housing, utilities, food assistance, and mental health. While these issues may not prompt their call, they're often part of the demands of caregiving.
Through personalized, one-on-one conversations with a trained 211 Community Resource Specialist, caregivers get tailored AARP resources that cover a wide range of topics, along with direct connections to local services.