Unique Programs Support Family and Friends Caring for Older Adults

Nationwide, 80 percent of older adults turn to informal caregivers such as their family, friends and neighbors for help with basic daily activities. Informal caregivers face numerous challenges and stresses as they balance their care responsibilities with their own busy lives. The need for a strong support system for family, friend and neighbor (FFN) caregivers is only expected to grow as the baby boomer generation ages.

At the same time, the need for culturally appropriate support programs is expected to increase as King County's population of older adults becomes increasingly diverse in terms of race, ethnicity and immigration status. That is why United Way of King County has made it a priority to invest in culturally appropriate programs for the FFN caregivers of older adults.

Recently, United Way granted funds to the Chinese Information and Service Center to increase its services in East and South King County for Chinese, Vietnamese and East Indian caregivers. The Evergreen Geriatric Regional Assessment Team received funding from United Way to offer support services for caregivers to sexual minorities, as well as caregivers helping older adults with developmental disabilities.

Last year United Way of King County and partner agencies including Asian Counseling and Referral Services, Elder and Adult Day Services and Senior Services of Seattle & King County made it possible for 1,316 caregivers to develop the skills they needed to provide effective care to older adults.

For more information about the work happening in King County to ensure our community's older adults remain healthy, active and independent, e-mail Community Impact Manager Linda Woodall, or call 206.461.4560.

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