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For Caregivers

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Programs & Resources

The role of a caregiver is both fulfilling and challenging especially because it can take on many different forms. Caregivers include family, friends, or paid helpers who provide care and assistance to people who need help taking care of themselves. The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan offers various services to support caregivers on their caregiving journey.

In-Home Living

Many resources exist to support older adults so that they can continue to live in the setting of their choice. It is important to honor the care recipient's wishes while also providing respite for caregivers to avoid burnout. Below are just a few of the options.

  • Adult Day: Adult Day Centers care for older adults for extended hours of the day. At an adult day center, individuals can take part in activities, exercise, socialize with others, and receive personal care while their caregivers have respite.
  • Dementia Friends Program: these one-hour informational sessions help organizations and individuals fully understand dementia and how to communicate effectively.
  • Respite: This service provides companionship or assistance with activities of daily living for older adults when their primary caregiver is unavailable or looking for support.
  • Transportation: transportation options for older adults exist to get them safely to medical appointments, grocery stores, and more, helping relieve some of the caregiver burden.
  • Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: If the care provided is that of a grandparent looking after their grandchildren, then this program can provide intergenerational experiences and educational sessions.
  • Home Delivered Meals: for older adults who may not be able to get out to shop for their own groceries, home-delivered meals can be a great option. They’ll receive regular meal drop-offs of well-rounded meals.

If you have questions on further support available in your county or would like to be set up with the resources mentioned above, call the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan at (616) 456-5664 or (888) 456-5664.


 

Upcoming Caregiver Events

Caregiver University

Our caregiver education program has a new name and a new format! Family Caregiver University is now Caregiver University, and classes will be offered virtually via Zoom to make them accessible to caregivers across our nine-county region. These sessions are open to all types of caregivers—family, friends, and professionals—and are led by community-based experts.

Advance Care Planning: Taking Control of What Happens to Us - January 20th at 10:00 am via Zoom. 

Everyone knows how they want to be treated if they are sick. But what happens when you can't speak for yourself, either due to an illness or a condition like dementia? Join us as we learn how to ensure your voice is heard, even if you cannot be the one to speak. Together, we’ll learn how to think about, discuss, and document your preferences, so your goals are respected—while also discussing the legal tools that work alongside your care plan

January 2026 Caregiver University Sign Up Logo
Language
  • English (US)
  • Español
  • Caregiver University Sign Up

    A free Caregiver University class for family and professional caregivers.
  • Tuesday, January 20 @ 10:00 AM (Virtual)

    Advance Care Planning: Taking Control of What Happens to Us | Presented by Dr. Carol Robinson, RN, CHPN and Catherine Jacobs, JD.
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(616) 456-5664 or (888) 456-5664

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