Duet: Partners In Health & Aging announced the inclusion of two of its core family caregiver programs in the launch of USAging’s first set of Caregiver Services and Supports Action Guides. These guides contain practical resources designed to help Aging Network organizations develop and strengthen innovative caregiver services and supports that meet the needs of caregivers.
“Family caregivers have so much on their plate, emotionally and logistically, and finding meaningful support isn’t always easy,” said Justin McBride, senior director of services and strategy. “Duet is honored to be included in these action guides as a trusted resource that family caregivers and community groups can use to navigate that often ambiguous path of caregiving.”
Finding Meaning and Hope was included in the Education, Counseling, and Peer Supports for Family Caregivers guide, introducing readers to the 10-session discussion series for family caregivers based on the book, “Loving Someone Who Has Dementia: How to Find Hope While Coping With Stress and Grief” by Pauline Boss, Ph.D. Each session features videos with Dr. Boss in conversation with family caregivers and includes guided discussions, led by trained volunteer facilitators, that help caregivers build resilience while they unpack the complex grief of ambiguous loss – caring for someone who is physically present but psychologically absent or no longer who they used to be.
Duet’s Peer Support Program was included in the Leveraging Volunteers to Support Family Caregivers guide, highlighting how the program connects volunteer mentors with new family caregivers or those experiencing stress to provide caregivers with a listening ear and safe space to discuss their concerns. Through this peer support, caregivers learn that their feelings are valid and receive companionship and guidance through the caregiving experience.
Duet provides free-of-charge services to support older adults and family caregivers throughout the Valley. To learn more about these programs and additional caregiver resources, visit www.duetaz.org or call 602-274-5022.
