Caring for Our Caregivers: Enhancing Support for Mississippi’s Aging Population
November is National Caregiver Month, which is dedicated to recognizing and supporting caregivers as they provide essential care for others. This year’s theme is “Caregiving Around the Clock.”
Through the Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS), the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) offers two primary programs to assist caregivers: the Mississippi Family Caregiver Support Program and the Mississippi Dementia Care Program.
DAAS is enhancing its programs to assist those who care for our most vulnerable citizens and better support our aging population.
“As our communities grow older, it’s imperative that we invest in the well-being of caregivers who are the backbone of our support systems,” said Kenyada Blake, Director of the MDHS Division of Aging and Adult Services. “The Mississippi Dementia Care Program is dedicated to providing essential respite and support services, ensuring caregivers have the necessary tools to care for their loved ones while also taking care of themselves.”
Under the Older Americans Act, MDHS administers the National Family Caregiver Support Program, which provides temporary relief for regular caregivers—whether they are spouses, children, or relatives—of individuals who are ill, functionally impaired, or living with dementia and require constant in-home care.
The Mississippi Family Caregiver Support Program collaborates with 10 Area Agencies on Aging and local community service providers to deliver five essential services for family caregivers, including:
- Information about available services.
- Assistance in accessing services.
- Individual counseling, organization of support groups, and caregiver training to help caregivers make informed decisions and solve problems related to their caregiving roles.
- Respite care temporarily relieves caregivers of their responsibilities.
- Supplemental services, on a limited basis, to complement the care provided by caregivers.
The Mississippi Dementia Care Program provides respite care and support services to informal caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias (ADRD) or cognitive impairment. Caregivers will have access to approximately 27 hours of respite care per month for twelve consecutive months. Support will also be offered through Building Better Caregiver workshops.
It is crucial for caregivers to take regular breaks to recharge and manage stress levels. Here are some recommendations:
- Be hopeful in your outlook.
- Maintain or increase levels of physical activity.
- Prioritize mental health.
- Stay connected with friends and family whenever possible.
To connect to the Mississippi Dementia Care Program, contact the Mississippi Access to Care (MAC) Center at 844-822-4622 or email msdementia.care@mdhs.ms.gov.
For additional information on Family Caregiver Support Program and other programs available for adults and seniors, visit MDHS Aging & Adult Services.