Caregiving
Thousands of Philadelphians provide full-time, unpaid care to a dependent adult. Caregiving can be physically demanding and can also take an emotional toll when the care recipient has behavioral problems or is too ill to recognize caregivers or appreciate their efforts.
There are many resources available to assist caregivers, including respite care, adult day care centers, financial assistance, education and support groups that can provide them with the emotional support they need.
PCA’s Family Caregiver Support Program offers assistance to primary unpaid caregivers who are providing daily hands-on care to a friend or relative. This support comes in many forms—financial assistance to help families who qualify financially pay for caregiving supplies and services; access to resources and information; and reduction of emotional stress through our care management and respite care services. Our goal is to assist caregivers with the resources they need to continue providing vitally needed care. There are also services available for relatives over age 60 who are raising a child age 18 or younger. Learn More>>
Respite services such as in-home care and adult day care services allow caregivers to have time for themselves or work at a job outside the home knowing their loved one is in good hands.
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There are many organizations that provide information about coping with chronic and terminal illnesses, what to expect, and how to meet the challenges of serving as a caregiver to someone who has one of these illnesses. There are also support groups that offer caregivers an opportunity to meet and share experiences with others facing similar challenges.
Click here for a list of organizations
We've compiled a list of publications and websites dedicated to helping caregivers, including the weekly Milestones e-news, published by PCA. Click here
Understanding your situation is an important first step in taking action to improve it. Click on the link below to take a self-evaluation which will highlight areas where you may need help.
Take the Caregiver Stress Test