Connecticut’s National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) is funded by Title IIE funds under an amendment to the federal Older Americans Act. It is operated in partnership with the State of Connecticut Department of Social Services, Elderly Services Division and the five Connecticut Area Agencies on Aging. National Family Caregiver Program provides up to $3,500 to caregivers caring for a loved one over the age of 60. This program also can pay for in-home help such as a home health aide, companion and homemakers as well as adult day care, in-patient respite, emergency response systems and home-delivered meals.

Services offered under NFCSP are:

·                     Providing information to caregivers about available resources.

·                     Linking caregivers to the available services in the area.

·                     Assisting caregivers in making decisions and solving problems relating to their care giving roles.

·                     Teaching caregivers techniques to help with their charge.

·                     Respite Care, providing caregivers a temporary break from their care giving responsibilities such as adult day care, home health aides and short-term stays at a nursing home or assisted living facility.

·                     Supplemental Services, items or services designed to help “fill the gap” when there is a need and there are no other ways to obtain the service or item. “Things” such as adult diapers, hearing aids, grab bars for bathrooms and services such as getting a porch fixed, so no one gets hurt, or putting in safety equipment.

·                     WCAAA offers materials on aging issues such as books and videos for caregivers and professionals.

Am I eligible?

Caregiver must be caring for a person aged 60 or older. A thorough assessment of the client is conducted to determine the level of need for the caregiver and client, clients must be 60 years of age or older. After the assessment, a care plan is developed and a determination is made of what other services may be available to the client.

Please note: There is currently a waiting list for this program for FY 2009. NFCSP is a federally-funded Program under the Older Americans Act. The program offers a variety of support services to family caregivers, and/or older individuals who are relative caregivers to anyone over the age of 60. NFSCP provides temporary relief, respite, to the primary caregiver. There is a 20% suggested donation for the services provided.

For a program application, go to www.wcaaa.org/pdf/CombinedApplication.pdf

Mail application to: WCAAA, 84 Progress Lane, Waterbury, CT 06705

To discuss your particular situation, or for more information on the Connecticut’s National Family Caregiver Support Program, please call Pat Wass or Sandy Taylor (800) 994-9422 or (203) 757-5449.

Family Caregiver Guide - Resources For Caregivers Of Older Adults

Family Caregiver Guide Quick Eligibility Reference Guide

Family Caregiver Support Program Application

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