Caregiver Support Services
Caregiving, whether for a loved one or professionally, can be difficult and exhausting at times. Often, caregivers do not know where or how to find help and support. SVCOA provides support, assistance, and information to people caring for persons 60 years of age or older or who suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease or related Dementia (ADRD), as well as to people age 60 and older who are the primary caregivers for children under the age of 18 or older disabled adults.
The types of assistance we provide include:
- Caregiver education classes and support programs
- Information and referrals for community resources, local programs, and support groups
- Assistance to assess needs and identify options
- Accessing respite care (Respite Grant)
- Access to homemaking support
The Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging (SVCOA) is now accepting proposals for the FY25 National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP). This program provides essential services and support to unpaid caregivers of older adults, younger disabled adults, and older caregivers (55+) caring for children under 18 in Rutland and Bennington counties. Eligible non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply. Proposals should focus on caregiver support, including respite care, support groups, and educational programs. Applications are due by November 15, 2024, with funding decisions based on project alignment with SVCOA and National Family Caregiver Support Program goals. Click below to download the full RFP and Grant Application. Questions? Contact SVCOA at 1-800-642-5119 or email us at infoandassistance@svcoa.net
Memory Cafe's
For more information about SVCOA’s Memory Cafe, in both Rutland and Bennington contact the SVCOA HelpLine at 1-800-642-5119 or email us at infoandassistance@svcoa.net
You can also ask to have your name added to our caregiver mailing list to ensure you receive information about any upcoming caregiver-specific events, workshops, and more.
Trualta is a valuable resource for caregivers, offered by the Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging (SVCOA). Designed to support those who find themselves in the role of a caregiver for a loved one, Trualta provides practical guidance to help manage the challenges associated with aging at home. It’s a platform where caregivers can discover options for dealing with difficult behaviors, connect with peers, and gain insight into effective caregiving strategies. By signing up, caregivers are equipped with the tools and advice necessary to enhance the quality of care they provide, ensuring both they and their loved ones benefit from the collective wisdom and experience shared within the Trualta community. For more personalized support or to learn more give SVCOA a call at 1-800-642-5119 today. This is a free service offered to caregivers through SVCOA.
The Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging is proud to offer the TCare Tailored Caregiver Assessment and Referral tool, a valuable resource designed to support caregivers in our community. This innovative tool is a comprehensive solution that assesses the unique needs of caregivers and connects them with the appropriate services and resources.
At the heart of our mission is a commitment to enhancing the well-being of older Vermonters and their caregivers. We recognize the vital role that caregivers play in the lives of their loved ones, and we understand that caregiving can be both rewarding and challenging. The TCare tool is tailored to individual caregivers, providing a personalized assessment that identifies their specific needs and stressors.
By offering the TCare Tailored Caregiver Assessment and Referral tool, we aim to empower caregivers with the knowledge and support they need to navigate their caregiving journey more effectively. Through this tool, we can connect caregivers to a network of services, support groups, and educational resources that can make a significant difference in their lives.
SVCOA remains dedicated to fostering a compassionate and supportive community for older Vermonters and their caregivers. We believe that by offering tools like TCare, we can strengthen the caregiving network and ultimately improve the quality of life for both caregivers and those they care for. For more information and to take advantage of this valuable resource reach out to SVCOA Caregiver Support Coordinator Aaron Brush at abrush@svcoa.net for assistance and guidance or by phone at 802-772-7835. Together, we can ensure that caregivers receive the support they deserve while providing the best possible care for their loved ones.
The 2024 Vermont Dementia Resource Guide, assembled by the Alzheimer's Association of Vermont, serves as a vital tool for individuals living with dementia as well as their caregivers throughout the state. This comprehensive guide aims to empower and support those affected by dementia, providing them with the necessary information, resources, and tools to navigate the challenges associated with the condition.
Acknowledging the diverse needs and circumstances of those it aims to assist, this guide is meticulously crafted to offer guidance on care options, legal and financial planning, support services, and health management strategies.
As a testament to its commitment to accessibility and support, the Alzheimer's Association of Vermont has made this guide available free of charge. It can be downloaded by simply clicking the link below.
SVCOA HelpLine
1-800-642-5119The HelpLine is a toll-free, confidential service that provides older Vermonters, caregivers and others with information, referrals and assistance toward accessing local, state or national resources and services.