Caring for Caregivers

Caregiver Assessment, Respite, Education & Support (CARES) supports caregivers who care for someone aged 60+ who lives in Washtenaw County to recharge, reconnect, and regroup. The caregiver does not have to reside in Washtenaw County.

CARES provides caregivers compassionate support, resource navigation, education and respite to promote health and well-being.
Program services are designed to support caregivers cope in multiple ways and address:

Physical and Emotional Health
Physical Stamina
Financial Security
Maintenance of Personal Freedom and Autonomy of Caregivers

How CARES Can Help:

Personal Assessment to learn about your needs and interests
Up to 48 hours of respite care per year to provide you with time to focus on yourself
Companion care including meal preparation, companionship, household chores and errands
Personal Care including bathing, dressing, dementia care, chronic condition care as needed.
Caregiver Consultations that offer counseling support for caregivers regarding mental health concerns, family dynamics, or other issues
Support Groups that include: General Support, Spousal Support, Bereavement and Aging Solo
Educational Resources and skill building
Assistance finding community resources
JFS Go Transportationfor you and your loved one
Text Talks. A weekly text message program with timely informative information and tips
Peer support from other caregivers over the phone

Spousal or Significant Other Caregiver Support Group
This group is open to anyone caring for a partner. Led by a licensed social worker, the group meets on the
4th Monday of the month from 5-6 pm via zoom. Please register for the group so that we may send you the link.

Caregiver Conversations
Please join us for connection, sharing and ideas around caregiver issues as we navigate our lives during these challenging times. Led by a licensed social worker, the group meets on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 3-4:30 pm via zoom. Please register for the group so that we may send you the link.

Grief Support Group
This group is open to anyone who is grieving the loss of a loved one or grieving the loss of someone who has changed significantly from their former self. Led by a licensed social worker, the group meets on the 3rd Monday of the month from 4-5 pm via zoom. Please register so that we may send you the link.

For more information and to have an assessment, contact Roberta Hirshon at 207.233.1051
Watch Let’s Talk About Dementia webinar from January 8, 2024.