It’s no secret that caregiving is a full-time job. Family caregivers need breaks from time to time, which is where the Washtenaw Support Network for Caregivers comes in. The Washtenaw Support Network for Caregivers is a brand-new initiative from Silver Club Memory Programs, Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw County, Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County, and Exhale, the Family Caregiver Initiative. Today on the blog we’re going to speak with Sarah Weiss, Coordinator for the Washtenaw Support Network for Caregivers. Sarah will discuss more about the initiative and how to get involved.
Senior Resource Connect: If you had to give an “elevator speech” about what your organization does, how would you describe it?
Sarah Weiss: The Washtenaw Support Network for Caregivers gives informal caregivers of older adults a chance to take a break and connect with one another in a supportive environment. We bring caregivers together to share social as well as educational activities, while also providing multiple options for free respite care for their loved ones. In addition, our program offers individualized care-planning consultations and help with chores and handyman tasks. All of our services are completely free of charge to caregivers! While we offer a variety of services in recognition of caregivers’ diverse needs, all of our services share the same overarching goal: to give those in caring roles a chance to breathe, and to let them know they are not alone.
SRC: Walk me through the step-by-step process. What happens when you get a phone call/referral?
SW: A caregiver who is interested in participating can get in touch by either email ([email protected]) or phone (734-764-6831). The WSNFC Program Coordinator will then reach out to the caregiver to discuss the program and the caregiver’s needs, and to answer any questions about WSNFC. When the caregiver decides to sign up for services, they are asked to complete an online intake form, which involves sharing some information about the caregiver and care recipient. If someone cannot easily complete the form online, they may also answer the intake questions verbally over the phone. Caregivers who know they want to participate are invited to fill out the intake form without reaching out first. When someone submits an intake, the WSNFC coordinator is notified and will call the person within a week to follow up, share more information, and answer any questions.
SRC: What organizations do you work closely with?
SW: The Washtenaw Support Network for Caregivers is provided collaboratively by Silver Club Memory Programs (which is part of the Michigan Medicine Geriatrics Center), Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County, and Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw County. The program is coordinated by Silver Club; JFS provides transportation and care-planning consultations; and CSSW provides assistance with home chores and handyman services. Each agency also offers a different form of respite care as part of the program.
On a broader scale, we are fortunate to be part of a wonderful network of community organizations in and around Washtenaw County. There are far too many organizations in this category to name them all here – but we are so grateful for all of the connections, encouragement, and outreach support that we have received from other local programs and agencies!
In addition, we are funded by the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, Health Foundation for Western & Central New York, Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, and managed by The Philanthropic Initiative (TPI), the 2022 Exhale initiative involves a total of 60+ partner organizations across Washtenaw County and Western New York who work in teams led by the 13 grantees, including Silver Club Memory Programs. Exhale is dedicated to offering innovative solutions that give caregivers of older adults an opportunity to breathe a little easier.
SRC: What are some things you wish the public knew about your role?
SW: Since WSNFC just launched a few weeks ago, we are working hard to get the word out! So, I hope that more people will learn about us, and the variety of services we offer, soon. I also wish that there was more public awareness about informal caregiving in general. Most of us will at some point in our lives be a caregiver, need a caregiver, or both – and yet, it is all too easy for the people in these roles and their needs to go unnoticed.
Many people don’t even think of themselves as “caregivers” – even though they might be spending large amounts of time and physical or emotional energy on giving care to a loved one. WSNFC is here to provide support to anyone who helps or worries about an older adult in their lives, whatever that looks like for the individual. It could mean helping with medications; taking someone to appointments; picking up groceries; “just checking in”; or something else altogether. If you’re wondering if you “count” as a caregiver, you probably are one, and we would love to connect with you!
SRC: What tips do you have for someone who is a caregiver or has a loved one who is a caregiver?
SW: My number one recommendation would be this: Don’t be afraid to reach out for support. Asking for help can be a stressful step to take for many reasons. Sometimes, caregivers tell me they feel guilty about reaching out, as if they “shouldn’t” need assistance. But caregiving is a huge responsibility, which can be both rewarding and challenging, and nobody should have to go it alone! Programs like WSNFC exist because we want to support you, and there are other organizations in the area as well to help caregivers and/or older adults. I strongly encourage taking advantage of them.
Self-care – doing things that nurture you, the caregiver, both physically and emotionally – is also so important. Finding time may be easier said than done, but self-care can look different for everyone depending on what fits into your life. Keep in mind that when you care for yourself, you are also helping your loved one. Your own well-being is a crucial part of caregiving.
SRC: Is there anything you would like to add?
SW: In addition to the support services we offer, we are looking for caregivers who are interested in participating in Zoom focus groups to share experiences and honest feedback to help improve the program. We are able to provide financial compensation for caregivers who participate in focus groups. We are also open to suggestions on an ongoing basis. For example, if there’s an activity you’d like to do with other caregivers, or a caregiving-related topic you’re interested in learning more about, please let us know!
Thank you to Sarah Weiss for sharing information about this new vital community program! To get involved, email Sarah at [email protected], call the office at (734) 764-683, or visit their website.
