November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize the family members, friends, and neighbors who dedicate their time, energy, and compassion to caring for older adults and individuals with disabilities.
Caregivers play an essential role in helping their loved ones remain safe, independent, and comfortable in their own homes. Whether providing daily assistance, coordinating medical appointments, preparing meals, or simply offering companionship, their contributions often go unseen but never unnoticed.
While caregiving can be incredibly rewarding, it can also bring physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Many caregivers take on these responsibilities with little outside assistance, often placing the needs of others before their own.
To every caregiver: Your health and well-being matter, too.
Resources for Caregivers in South Central Tennessee
At South Central Tennessee Development District (SCTDD), we recognize the important role caregivers play in our communities. Through our South Central Area Agency on Aging and Disability (SCAAAD), we offer resources and assistance designed to ease the responsibilities of caregiving and help individuals continue living in their homes.
The National Family Caregiver Support Program provides assistance to unpaid family members and friends caring for older adults and individuals with disabilities. Whether caregiving is a new responsibility or something you have been doing for years, support is available.
Services may include:
- Service Coordination: Assistance connecting caregivers and their loved ones with available resources.
- Caregiver Counseling and Support Groups: Opportunities for guidance, encouragement, and shared experiences.
- Respite Care: Temporary relief from caregiving duties, which may be authorized for up to four hours per week.
- Caregiver Training: Education and resources to help caregivers navigate their responsibilities.
- Supplemental Services: Additional support that may include home-delivered meals and Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS).
Eligibility and availability of services may vary. A cost share for respite care may apply based on the care recipient’s income.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Whether you are caring for an aging parent, a spouse, a friend, or another loved one, asking for assistance is not a sign of weakness. Having access to support and resources can make a meaningful difference for both caregivers and the people they care for.
This November, we want caregivers throughout South Central Tennessee to know: We see you, we appreciate you, and the work you do matters.
Thank you for the compassion, patience, and dedication you bring to others each day.
For more information about caregiver resources and available services, contact the South Central Area Agency on Aging and Disability at 1-866-836-6678.
Media Contact:
Sydney Brewer, Marketing & Communications Director
sbrewer@sctdd.org
