One of the most important aspects of managing life as a family caregiver is accessing useful resources that can provide needed knowledge and skills. The list of helpful resources below provides information about educational materials and support organizations related to family caregiving. It is not exhaustive but instead provides a beginning point for those involved in family caregiving.
Support and resources in the caregiving process come in many forms: prayer, talking to family or friends, visits with professionals or assistive equipment. One of the most important aspects of managing life as a caregiver is accessing useful resources that can provide needed knowledge, skills or assistance.
Understanding myths versus realities in family caregiving can be helpful. This publication explores different realities you can face with family caregiving.
The time to plan for the care needs of yourself, a family member or another you care about is before the person might need it. At the least, planning often can occur before the care needs become more significant. Planning for care involves strategies such as assessing the situation, discussing the big concerns and forming a support or caregiving team.
Family members or friends may feel awkward or uncertain about having a conversation with you about providing care. They may worry about your feelings or be unsure of what you think. You can help them by starting the care conversation.
Family caregiving is an activity that occurs across many different settings. Individuals in need of care at particular times may include adult children with special needs, aging parents, a sick family member or a friend. People may need help with transportation to medical appointments, light chores around the home, payment of bills or personal care. No matter the person or the need, the who and the what of family caregiving clearly are important to understand.
Caregiving provided to aging family members or others in need often is associated with stress and burnout. Although providing direct care to a family member or someone else can result in significant stress, remember that this experience can have positive benefits as well. Consider the rewards and challenges of the caregiving experience honestly.
Grandparents occurs in a variety of unique circumstances, including situations of divorce, immigration, blended families or other contexts. This bulletin explores grandparenting in unique circumstances and how grandparents can navigate family transitions, in-law relationships, and other family situations.
Grandparenting at a distance is more common in today's era. If separated by distance, grandparents may have concerns about missing important milestones or losing touch with grandkids. This bulletin shares strategies for using communication tools and other resources to stay connected with grandchildren at a distance.
Grandparents often extend financial help to grandchildren. Grandparents can assist a grandchild with financial needs, make investments in a grandchild's future, and teach money management lessons. This bulletin highlights key ideas and resources in extending financial assistance to grandchildren.
