The Three Types of Support You Need
1. Practical Support - Help with daily tasks
- Respite care (adult day programs, in-home care)
- Meal delivery services
- Help with housework or errands
- Transportation assistance
2. Emotional Support - Someone to listen
- Caregiver support groups (online or in-person)
- Therapist or counselor
- Trusted friends or family
- Faith community
3. Professional Support - Expert guidance
- Dementia care specialists
- Social workers
- Financial advisors
- Legal counsel (for advance directives)
How to Ask for Help
Many caregivers struggle to ask. Try this approach:
Instead of: "I'm fine, I can handle it"
Say: "I need help with [specific task] on [specific day]. Can you do this?"
Examples:
- "Can you stay with Mom every Tuesday afternoon so I can go to my doctor?"
- "Can you pick up groceries on your way over this week?"
- "Can you research respite care options in our area?"
People want to help but don't know what you need. Be specific.
Finding Resources
Start here:
- Alzheimer's Association: 24/7 helpline, local support groups
- Area Agency on Aging: Local resources and programs
- ARCH National Respite Network: Respite care locator
- Caregiver Action Network: Education and support
- Local hospitals: Often have caregiver support programs
Financial assistance programs:
- Veterans benefits (if applicable)
- Medicaid waiver programs
- Long-term care insurance
- Local charity programs
Creating Your Support Plan
This week, commit to:
- Contact ONE support resource
- Ask ONE person for ONE specific type of help
- Research ONE respite care option in your area
Small steps prevent burnout.
