NEW YORK — The month of November is recognized as National Family Caregivers Month, a time to bring awareness and recognition for family caregivers across the country.
In New York State, more than 4 million caregivers are providing more than $39 billion in direct and indirect care to help a relative, friend, or neighbor.
“Family, friends and neighbors are unsung heroes who all too often do not get the recognition they deserve for providing care to a loved one day in and day out," New York State Office for the Aging Director Greg Olsen said. "NYSOFA, through our partnerships, is committed to helping caregivers recognize their importance and provide help, including in-person supports as well as tools to relieve caregiver stress, find resources, learn evidence-based best-practices, and feel empowered. Working with local organizations as well as leading national programs and initiatives, we’re unwavering in our support of caregivers and the people who rely upon them.”
Area Agencies on Aging in New York State offer more than 20 core services to help older adults age in place.
These services and supports include transportation, nutrition programs, home-delivered meals, personal care, legal services, social programs, and more. Visit NYSOFA’s website or contact NY Connects at 1-800-342-9871 for more information.
The New York State Office for the Aging and the Association on Aging in New York have partnered with the nation's leading caregiver education and training platform, Trualta, to provide residents with more resources.
Caregivers will have access to the New York State Caregiver Portal, an online community that offers advice, compassion, and encouragement to provide better care.
Thousands of New York caregivers so far have taken lessons or attended support groups through the Caregiver Portal, with 97% reporting they gained new skills, according to NYSOFA.
NYSOFA, the New York State Department of Labor, and partner agencies have also launched a Working Caregivers Initiative to address the other stresses experienced by caregivers.
As part of this initiative, NYSOFA asks New Yorkers to complete a statewide survey to assess specific challenges faced by individuals in this role. NYSOFA and NYSDOL also offer a Caregivers in the Workplace Guide offering tips and resources for employers to help support working caregivers.
For more information on National Caregivers Month or the resources offered by NYSOFA, visit the link here.