MDHS Spotlights National Family Caregivers Month: Encouraging Mississippians to “Plug into Care”
This November, the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) recognizes November as National Family Caregivers Month and this year’s theme: “Plug into Care”. MDHS invites caregivers to connect with support tools, networks and educational resources that can make caregiving more meaningful and manageable.
This month serves as a reminder of the role that caregivers play in supporting and caring for older adults and individuals with disabilities. It also highlights the importance of staying connected to resources, support networks and self-care.
In Mississippi, thousands of caregivers devote their time and energy to ensuring the safety and well-being of loved ones and vulnerable members of our community. Through the Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS), MDHS offers programs thatsupport caregivers by providing access to respite care, education, counseling and local programs designed to support our aging population.
“During National Family Caregivers Month, we honor the strength, compassion, and selfless dedication of those who care for their loved ones every day,” said KenYada Blake-Washington, Director of the MDHS Division of Aging and Adult Services. “Family caregivers are the backbone of our communities, ensuring that older adults and individuals with disabilities can live with dignity and independence. The Mississippi State Unit on Aging proudly celebrates and supports the invaluable contributions of caregivers across our state.”
The “Plug into Care” theme encourages caregivers to stay connected, not only to their loved ones but also to community resources that can ease the daily challenges of caregiving. MDHS continues to partner with Area Agencies on Aging and community organizations statewide to promote caregiver well-being through training, support groups and respite opportunities.
The Mississippi Family Caregiver Support Program works in partnership with 10 Area Agencies on Aging and local service providers to deliver five essential services for family caregivers:
- 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
This November, MDHS encourages all Mississippians to celebrate caregivers by offering a word of encouragement, lending a helping hand or just taking a moment to say thank you.
For additional information on Family Caregiver Support Program and other programs available for adults and seniors, visit MDHS Aging & Adult Services.