The National Family Caregiver Support Program is a federally funded program requiring each state to provide a support program for caregivers. Passed as an amendment to the Older Americans Act in 2000, each state is required to have a program to meet the needs of caregivers.
Note: There are no income requirements to receive assistance from this program. 
People who may benefit from this program:

• Caregivers who are caring for someone older than age 60. While many caregivers are family members, this program also includes caregivers who are not related by blood or marriage. This program is also for caregivers of a person of any age with Alzheimer’s disease or a related disorder.
• Grandparents and other relative caregivers over the age of 55 who are caring for a child age 18 or under and grandparents or relative caregivers providing care for adult children with a disability who are between 19 - 59 years of age. The caregivers must be age 55 years and older and cannot be the child’s natural or adoptive parent.

Program Services

• Education and training in coordination with other organizations in Frederick County
• Information, assistance, and referrals to local agencies and services that would be beneficial to the caregivers
• Resource library
• Respite Services offer once a year assistance of up to $350 toward respite care
• Supplemental services are funds allocated to provide supplies to help with care provided by the caregiver such as specialized medical equipment, cost of medications and personal hygiene items
• An in-home care provider registry listing individuals who provide care services in the home (i.e. companionship care, light housekeeping, meal preparation, hair care and styling, etc.) Note: Contact with staff is required to receive the registry. Please call or email the program coordinators for more information or if you or someone you know would like to be listed as a care provider.

Partners in the Arts: early-stage social engagement program
Enhancing the lives of individuals living with memory loss and their care partners

Circle of Friends - Memory Cafe & More
Join us for lunch on the 3rd Friday of every month (September-June). This program is designed to offer a safe and relaxed place where caregivers, the person for whom they care, families, friends, and health and social professionals, come together for a time of support, an activity, and good food. 
 
Support Group
For caregivers of people 60 years of age or older:

• Meets the last Wednesday of each month from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
• Facilitated by Edi Stewart, LCSW-C
• Please contact the Caregiver Program coordinators if you have questions

The Working Family Caregiver is a free e-book offering quick, simple tips to help you manage two demanding roles that can complicate life.