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Redwood Caregiver Resource Center
Family Caregiver Support Program

What is the National Family Caregiver Support Program?
Congress authorized the National Family Caregiver Support Program in 2000 as a new program of the Older Americans Act. In Lake and Mendocino Counties this program helps family caregivers of older loved ones who are ill or have disabilities. Family caregivers have always been the mainstay underpinning long-term care for older individuals. Only a little more than 5% of older individuals rely exclusively on paid care services. This program addresses family needs, providing an array of supportive services to help family caregivers; from prevention and early intervention, to assistance throughout the various stages of need and long-term care.

Who is eligible for Family Caregiver Support Program services?
The National Family Caregiver Support Program serves families and caregivers of individuals aged 60 and over or individuals of any age with Alzheimer's disease or related disorders with neurological and organic brain dysfunction. Caregivers must live in Lake or Mendocino Counties .

What are the benefits for my family and me?
The Redwood Caregiver Resource Center - Family Caregiver Support Program services are designed to assist caregivers of older individuals and include:

• Specialized Information - Providing a central source of information about care giving, care options, long-term care and services for families and professionals caring for older individuals. Caregivers and family members will receive assistance with problem identification and solution exploration. A comprehensive resource lending library is available .

• Comprehensive Assessment - Assessment is provided by trained professionals through a home or office visit. Family Consultants assess problems and needs, explore care options, and provide information to caregivers and family members .

• Case Management - Assistance with care coordination when caregivers are experiencing diminished functioning capacities which require the provision of services by formal service providers. Case management services will include assessing needs, developing care plans, authorizing services, arranging services, coordinating the provision of services among providers, follow-up, and reassessment, as required .

• Caregiver Support and Education Groups - Groups and workshops to provide caregivers with emotional support and assist caregivers in developing the skills necessary to perform care giving activities, including decision making and problem solving .

• Respite Care - Subsidies for time-limited, in-home care or day care assist families in caring for a loved one at Horne by providing a period of relief for caregivers. Family Caregiver Support Program-funded respite is available through Redwood Caregiver Resource Center.

Where can I obtain additional information?
Family Caregiver Support Program services are provided by Redwood Caregiver Resource Center in partnership with Lake and Mendocino Counties AAA. For additional information, or to make a referral, contact us at: (707) 542-0282 or (800) 834-1636