Mar 11 2025 44 mins
Guests:
- Laura Reddick – Leads caregiver support programs at DAAA.
- Crystal White – Caregiver Support Coordinator, specializing in connecting seniors and caregivers with resources.
DAAA Programs & Services:
- Caregiver Education & Training – Workshops and community support.
- Respite Care – Encourages caregivers to take breaks for self-care.
- Aging Mastery Program – Focuses on healthy aging and caregiver well-being.
- Kinship Circle – Supports grandparents raising grandchildren.
- Long-term Care & Home-based Primary Care – Expanding services for seniors and caregivers.
- Community Partnerships – Collaboration with Franklin Wright Settlements, SRC, Henry Ford Health, and Alzheimer's Association.
Importance of Respite & Self-Care:
- Caregivers are at high risk of burnout (30% in crisis).
- Small breaks (e.g., reading, exercising, outdoor time) can improve well-being.
- Resources available – Respite grants, caregiver support programs.
Male Caregivers:
- 39% of caregivers are men, and this number is rising.
- Unique challenges: caring for spouses, discomfort with personal care tasks, isolation.
- DAAA initiatives: male-only caregiver events, peer bonding activities (e.g., sports, support groups).
Common Caregiver Struggles:
- Stress, emotional fatigue, financial strain.
- Need for legal planning – Power of attorney, estate planning.
- Isolation – Caregivers feel alone but benefit from peer support.
Upcoming DAAA Events & Resources:
- Aging Mastery Program (ongoing, virtual & free).
- Social media & website resources for caregiver education.
Contact Information:
Detroit Area Agency on Aging (DAAA)
- Phone: (313) 446-4444 (Ask for the Caregiver Support Team)
- Website: www.detroitseniorsolution.org
- Social Media:
- Facebook, Instagram, Twitter: Search for Detroit Area Agency on Aging
- Direct Extensions:
- Laura Reddick: (313) 446-4444, ext. 5288
- Crystal White: (313) 446-4444, ext. 5213
Southeast Michigan Senior Regional Collaborative (SRC)
- Website: www.semisrc.org
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 888-341-8593
Neighborhood Legal Services Michigan - Elder Law & Advocacy Center (NLS)
- Phone: (313) 964-1975
- Website: www.nlsmichigan.org