Caregiver Programs

Alzheimer's and Family Caregiver Programs

Who is the Caregiver Program for?

Family members, neighbors, and friends who help or care for:

• People age 60 and over
• Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia, regardless of their age

The program also assists:

• Grandparents or relative caregivers age 55 and over who are caring for children under age 19
• Relative caregivers age 55 and over who are caring for someone with a disability who is age 19 to 59

What does the program offer?

• Information about caregiving issues, Alzheimer’s disease, and memory loss

• Help finding local resources
• Information and counseling on reducing stress and the importance of self-care for caregivers
• Individual counseling, support groups, and training
• Limited funding for services and supplies that help you care for your loved one
• Educational material on brain health and Alzheimer’s disease
• Free memory screening

How do I apply?
Call the Caregiver Coordinator at the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Dunn County at 715-232-4006 to arrange a home or office visit.   The coordinator will help you examine your options and connect you with local resources.

Am I a Caregiver?

• Do you help with daily needs like bathing or dressing?

• Do you help prepare meals, clean house, or do laundry?
• Do you take someone to the doctor or grocery store?
• Do you make phone calls to make sure the person is okay or has taken their medicine?
• Do you help pay bills and make financial decisions?

• Do you care for your grandchild or relative under 18?
  

If you answered “yes” to any of these, then you are a caregiver.

Signs of Caregiver Stress
Caregiver stress results in the declining health of the caregiver, which will then affect the care they give their loved one. 

• Health problems—headache, fatigue, pain, sickness
•  Emotional problems—anxiety, irritability, anger, depression
•  Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
•  Sleep problems

If you are experiencing Caregiver Stress, find help by attending a support group, setting up services to help such as home delivered meals, respite care, or supportive home care, and taking care of your own health.