BayPath Elder Services, Inc. is pleased to take part in the statewide implementation of the National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP). This program recognizes the critical role that caregivers play in the provision of in-home assistance to the elderly and in the raising of grandchildren. Sustaining caregivers of elders through quality support services has enabled the Commonwealth to continue to meet the needs of the growing elder population while supporting and acknowledging the care that families have traditionally provided.

The Metrowest Family Caregiver Support Program is a collaborative effort of BayPath Elder Services of Framingham, Minuteman Senior Services of Burlington, and Springwell of Watertown. The project serves senior and their families in 38 communities.

Care Advisor and Care Trainer

A care advisor is available to meet with you in your home or other location that is convenient for you. The care advisor will discuss with you what your needs are and provide information on local resources and programs available to assist you in managing your caregiving responsibilities. If needed, the care advisor can link you with a care manager for ongoing support and assistance. This service is free of charge.

A caregiver trainer works to empower caregivers through education, support, and training. These services are provided through one-on-one assistance to caregivers by helping to determine needs, identify options, and train and support family and professional caregivers, thus providing temporary relief from the demands of constant care. Caregiver trainers can recommend other professionals to help you with a number of caregiving issues such as nutrition, medication management, and recent medical diagnoses. This service is also free of charge.

You may be eligible for support, assistance, and information at no cost if you are caring for yourself or …

• An adult age 60 or over;
• An adult of any age experiencing memory loss; or if
• You are a grandparent (over the age of 60) caring for a child 18 years or younger, including someone with mental retardation or a developmental disability

Free Caregiver Resources

All the resources listed below are free of charge. To obtain copies, Please email us at info@baypath.org or call the Caregiver Support Program at 508-872-1866, ext. 164; or print the order form and mail it directly to: BayPath Elder Services, Caregiver Support Program, 354 Waverley Street, Framingham MA 01702

Tips for Caregivers

• Relief from Stress
• Asking for Help
• Improving Doctor/Caregiver Communications

Driving

• The Older and Wiser Driver
• Drivers 55 Plus - Check Your Own Performance: A Self-rating Form of Questions, Facts and Suggestions for Safe Driving
• How to Help an Older Driver: A Guide for Planning Safe Transportation

Tips for Caregivers of Elders with Alzheimer's Disease or Related Disorders:

• Asking for Help: Steps To Feeling Better
• Creating a Safe Environment
• The Basics of Daily Care
• Sleeping through the Night
• Managing Bladder and Bowel Problems
• Dealing with Wandering
• Enjoying Everday Activities
• Caring for the Caregiver
• Bathing and Personal Care
• Responding to Persons with Alzheimer's Disease
• Responding to the Individual's Increasing Needs
• Interacting with Persons with Alzheimer's Disease
• Preventing Wandering and Getting Lost
• Overcoming Challenges and Adapting to the Needs of Persons
• Structuring the Day at Home

• 100 Great Things About Growing Older: from those who have been there!

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BayPath Elder Services – Order Form

DATE: _______________________________________

YOUR NAME: ________________________________

ORGANIZATION NAME: _______________________

STREET ADDRESS: ____________________________

CITY OR TOWN: ______________________________

STATE: ______________________________________

ZIP CODE: ___________________________________

PUBLICATIONS REQUESTED:

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Caring Conversations

"Caring Conversations" are free, participatory seminars that educate and assist those concerned about seniors.

Along with the wisdom gained with life experience can come changes in health status, financial status, and in one’s ability to manage daily activities. These are sensitive topics that may be difficult to discuss. Preparing to discuss such issues is made easier when you have the right information. "Caring Conversations" may help you begin this dialogue with your aging loved one.  "Caring Conversations" are open to the public and are free of charge. 

"Caring Conversations" may include … 

• "Shifting Family Roles as We Age" -- how do our aging family members' loss of independence and health affect our family relationships?
• "Caring for Yourself as You Care for Others" -- pleasures and pitfalls of day to day caregiving
• "Senior Moment or Alzheimer's Disease?" -- what is memory loss?
• "To Drive or Not to Drive" -- strategies for conversations with older drivers
• "Caring for Someone with Dementia" -- how to manage physical, emotional and behavioral needs
  
• "Understanding Health Insurance Options" -- prescription drug coverage, Medicare, Medicaid and HMO's 
• "Living Long, Eat Well" -- ho wnutritional needs change as we age, common foods/medication interactions and living with dietary restrictions
• "Legal Issues" -- advance directives, health care proxy, durable power of attorney
• "Spirituality and Aging" -- how beliefs and religious practices influence later life
• "Home Safe Home" -- simple tips and home modifications to promote independence

BayPath is partnering with local elder agencies to offer "Caring Conversations."  If you are interested in a topic not on this list, please call us and we will tailor a conversation to meet your needs.

For information on the Metrowest Caregiver Support Program, please call 508-872-1866 and ask for the Caregiver Support Program.