Supporting Caregivers, Inspiring Graceful Aging: Flipping the Script Together

ACC OAM Blog Caregiver and Aging Gracefully

This Older Americans Month, Aging Care Connections (ACC) is “Flipping the Script” by celebrating caregivers and seniors who age with grace and resilience. In the third blog of our four-part series, we spotlight our Caregiver Support/Aging Gracefully programs, which empower caregivers and older adults in Lyons, Proviso, Riverside, Leyden, and Norwood Park townships to thrive, proving aging is a shared journey of strength and connection.

ACC’s mission to enrich aging well drives our Caregiver Support services, offering counseling, support groups, and respite care for unpaid caregivers of seniors (60+) or those with Alzheimer’s. In 2024, ACC supported thousands, addressing the 22% of caregivers who report health declines due to stress. One caregiver, for example, found relief through a weekly support group, sharing strategies to manage their parent’s dementia. Respite care, whether in-home or facility-based, provides breaks, allowing caregivers to recharge while ensuring their loved ones’ safety. “ACC’s support group gave me strength to keep going,” said one caregiver.

Aging Gracefully complements this through resources like assistance finding housekeeping help and managing medications. They can help navigate the transition between hospital and home, and interpret the many available long-term care options. These programs flip the script, showing caregivers as heroes and seniors as vibrant contributors, not burdens.

ACC’s partnerships with libraries and community centers expand access, participating in events like the upcoming June 17 Senior Assistance Fair in Norridge, where older adults and caregivers can learn more about available resources. By fostering resilience, ACC ensures aging is a dignified, connected experience.

Our final blog will explore Enrichment, and the Aging Well Neighborhood program. Contact ACC at 708-354-1323, email info@agingcareconnections.org, or visit AgingCareConnections.org for caregiver resources. Share your stories with #OlderAmericansMonth and #AgingCareConnections. Let’s flip the script on aging!