Quick answer
A family caregiver is a relative or friend who helps an older or disabled person with daily needs, usually unpaid. Get organized with a care notebook, medication list and key documents; share tasks among family; and use available help: respite care, adult day care, training and support groups through your Area Agency on Aging's family caregiver program, and in some cases paid caregiver programs through Medicaid or the VA. (800) 614-8388 to talk through options.
What family caregivers often do
- Help with bathing, dressing, meals and medications.
- Drive to appointments; manage bills and paperwork.
- Coordinate doctors, home care and pharmacies.
- Provide company and emotional support.
Get organized
- Keep a care notebook: medications, doctors, insurance, history.
- Put key documents in one place, including power of attorney.
- Write down a weekly routine.
- Share a calendar with family members.
Help you can ask for
- Family caregiver support programs: the National Family Caregiver Support Program, run through Area Agencies on Aging, offers information, counseling, training and respite.
- Respite care: short stays or in-home breaks. See respite care.
- Adult day care on weekdays.
- Paid caregiver programs: some Medicaid waivers and the VA caregiver program. See paid family caregivers.
- Dementia support: the Alzheimer's Association helpline, 800-272-3900.
- Veterans: the VA Caregiver Support Program.
Take care of yourself
- Keep your own doctor visits.
- Accept offers of help, and ask for specific help.
- Join a support group, in person or online.
- Watch for signs of burnout: exhaustion, irritability, poor sleep, feeling hopeless.
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Questions families ask
What is a family caregiver?
A relative or friend who helps someone with daily needs, usually unpaid.
Where can family caregivers get help?
Your Area Agency on Aging, the Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116), the Alzheimer's Association, and the VA for veterans.
Can family caregivers get paid?
Sometimes, through Medicaid waivers or the VA caregiver program.
How do I avoid caregiver burnout?
Take breaks, accept help, use respite care and look after your own health.