A recent report by the National Alliance for Caregiving found that 61 percent of family caregivers said their job has been impacted by their caregiving responsibilities. With more than 53 million caregivers in the U.S., that translates to a significant impact on the business community and the national economy as a whole.
Many caregivers report physical or emotional strain and difficulty taking care of their own health, with a similar proportion seeing their own health decline. Easterseals recognizes the many challenges of being a caregiver and is there to help navigate through the sometimes-difficult journey.
The Easterseals Community Outreach Program offers resources and support to caregivers, including knowledgeable case managers to provide information and resources through the Caregiver Resource Center. Easterseals offers day programs for adults with acquired disabilities and seniors so caregivers can go to their jobs or take a break with the peace of mind that their loved one is being cared for in a safe and stimulating environment.
There’s also an assistive technology demonstration center, funding for respite care, and Personal Attendant Services which allows people with disabilities and seniors to employ their own personal attendant and perform duties based on individual needs. Specific examples may include help with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and other duties that help the individual maintain an independent lifestyle. While the person with the disability or senior is the employer, Easterseals staff helps with the selection and hiring of the attendant and assists with onboarding and payroll.
Easterseals caregiver services are vital to people like K’June and Brian Evans.
Eleven years ago, their daughter, Ariell Green, had an asthma attack and was without oxygen for 25 minutes. Ariell survived the attack, but the incident permanently changed not only her life but also her parents’ lives as they transitioned from being just her parents to Ariell’s full-time caregivers.
K’June participates in an Easterseals’ caregiver support group. She has also taken advantage of the Resource and Technology Demonstration Center to find different types of assistive technology which can lessen the strain of caregiving on her life and help her daughter continue to be as independent as possible. At the recommendation of Easterseals, K’June got a gait belt to help Ariell walk with assistance. She also uses adaptive clothing recommended by Easterseals which makes it easier to get Ariell dressed each day.
“Easterseals gives me more than they know,” K’June says. “They call to check in. It is a testament to how they care. The support they give me gives me the extra umph to keep going.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with the responsibilities of caregiving, Easterseals can offer valuable assistance. For information on caregiver services and resources, contact Easterseals Community Outreach Program at 302-221-2076 or email
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