Caregiver Resource Centers 

Caring for a loved one with cognitive disorder or another disabling condition forever changes the lives of families and caregivers. There can be devastating effects on those providing long-term care: financial pressures, legal quandaries, health problems, and emotional turmoil. Fortunately, in California, Caregiver Resource Centers (CRCs) offer help throughout the state serve thousands of families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer's disease, stroke, Parkinson's disease and other disorders. California was the first state in the nation to establish a statewide network of support organizations for caregivers; every resident has access to a CRC in their area (see below for services).

Regional Caregiver Resource Center (CRC) Services

Each CRC provides the following core services to families and caregivers at low or no cost:

• Specialized Information and Referral - Referrals and advice related to caregiver stress, diagnoses and community resources.
• Family Consultation and Care Planning - Trained staff consultations to assess needs of persons with cognitive impairment and their families, explore care options, and develop a course of action.
• Respite Care - Financial assistance for temporary in-home support, adult day care services, short-term or weekend care and transportation.
• Short-Term Counseling - Individual, family and group sessions with licensed counselors to offer emotional support to caregivers
• Support Groups - Online or in-person meetings to share experiences and ideas to ease the stress of caregiving.
• Professional Training - Workshops on long-term care, patient management, public policy, legal and financial issues for health and service providers.
• Legal and Financial Consultation - Experienced attorneys consult on Powers of Attorney, Advance Directives, estate and financial planning, conservatorships and other matters.
• Education - Special workshops on topics such as cognitive disorders, dealing with dementia, long-term care planning and stress management to help caregivers cope with day-to-day concerns.  

Additional Resources

• FCA Web Resource Guide A comprehensive directory for all aspects of caregiving, medical information, foundations, and support groups.
• Administration on Aging National Family Caregiver Support Web resources for elders, caregivers, professionals and providers.
• National Respite Locator Service Helps parents, caregivers, and professionals find respite services in their state and local area to match their specific needs.