Caregivers
Caregivers face unique and difficult challenges
The fact is...
- The aging process starts 10-15 years sooner for people with disabilities.
- Nationally, there are about 526,000 adults age 60+ with disabilities. Their numbers will double by 2030.
- Minnesota families provide 95% of the care needed by older persons living in the community.
- An estimated 60% of individuals with disabilities live at home. In 25% of those households, their caregivers are 60 or older.
- At age 60, 60% of adults with Down syndrome are affected by Alzheimer's Disease, compared to 6% of the general population.
Caring for yourself is one of the most important things you can do. When your needs are taken care of, the person you care for will benefit too!
Here's what you can do...
- List tasks that need to be done and group them
- What you need to do
- What family/friends can do
- What service providers can do
- Prioritize what you need to do into a manageable routine, with time for yourself
- Assign family and friends tasks, or at least have a list ready when someone offers help
- Learn about available services
- Use respite services to maintain your health and well-being
- Talk with someone you trust
Funding provided in part under contract with the Metropolitan Area Agency on Aging, Inc., as part of the Older Americans Act Program.
Help is available for caregivers. Get connected!
