To mark National Caregivers Day, United Way of Tarrant County is highlighting the work its volunteers do and the work of people caring for loved ones. The United Way says most people will either need a caregiver or become a caregiver at some point in their lives.
"Oftentimes, we slip into the role of caregiver without knowing," says United Way of Tarrant County Chief Aging Services Officer Shakita Johnson. "It's one phone call; it's one trip to the hospital, and we often step up because we're just getting the job done."
Johnson says people do not choose to become a caregiver for a famly member and often do not have time to plan and learn about the role ahead of time.
"Everyone either has been or are going to be a caregiver at some point," she says. "It is a continuum we all will find ourselves in at some point. The most important thing to know is you don't have to go through it alone."
She says the United Way can provide services at no cost. Among those services are home modifications so people can get through doorways in a wheelchair, the delivery of medical supplies, and the ability to serve as a "trusted adviser" for things like navigating insurance, Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security.
"What you can boil our services down to is we provide vital services for older adults, adults with disability and their caregivers," Johnson says.
The United Way provides those services at no cost. Johnson says she hopes National Caregivers Day will bring attention to the work those family and friends do every day.
"They're unsung heroes. They bear most of the burden of providing care for their loved ones," she says. "We want to make sure they understand there are services available to them, and we're here to help."
Johnson says National Caregivers Day can also call attention to those services that are available year round. She says caregivers do not have a chance to work regular hours at the job, so United Way can send paid attendants to stay with people who need help so their family member can step away.
"Oftentimes, that one or two hours to step away and catch your breath, you might not realize how important that is to us until we're in that situation," she says. "Maybe you can go to the doctor or just take a nap."
The United Way of Tarrant County also operates the Aging and Disability Resource Center. Johnson says, for those caregivers thrust into the role on short notice, the center can help them find programs and services they might need.
"You don't have to go through it alone. There are so many people here at our organization who are willing to help you," she says. "Give us a call. Take advantage of the knowledge and expertise we have because we're here for you."
She says the team answers about 12,000 calls a year. People can reach the Aging and Disability Resource Center at (855) 937-2372. More information is available at https://www.unitedwaytarrant.org/aging-disability-resource-center.
United Way of Tarrant County has launched the first Texas chapter of the organization, "Adult Children of Aging Parents."
"They have an evidence-informed curriculum they give out during those sessions," Johnson says. "It's available to caregivers who are just thrust into the world of, 'what do I do for my aging parents.'"
The first meeting of Adult Children of Aging Parents will take place Tuesday, February 24 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services office at 501 W. Sanford Street in Arlington. The program is free, and people can sign up at https://acapcommunity.org/event/finding-and-using-senior-services-in-surrounding-areas/.