You are not alone. Nearly 60% of those caring for an adult over the age of 50 are working; the majority of those work full time, according to a study on caregiving by the MetLife Company.*

The National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) managed by the Administration on Aging has recognized the importance of family caregivers in enabling individuals to stay independent for as long as possible. Every state and territory are provided funds through their aging service provider networks to help family caregivers. Some of the services include:
• Respite care for someone who can take over so you can get some time away for yourself;
• Support groups for caregivers who help each other by listening to each other's stories and exchanging ideas and tips to make the role easier;
• Educational programs and resources on aspects of caregiving, especially how to take care of yourself while caring for someone else.

To access services under NFCSP, you can contact your nearest Area Agency on Aging. The ElderCare Locator can help you find the nearest one. Call 1-800-677-1116, or visit their Web site at http://www.eldercare.gov.

* Source: The MetLife Caregiving Cost Study: Productivity Losses to U.S. Business. MetLife Mature Market Institute and National Alliance for Caregiving, July 2006.