Caring for someone is an expression of love, but it isn't always easy. Millions of people provide care for family members and loved ones while balancing jobs, families, and their own responsibilities. The physical and emotional demands can be significant, yet often go unseen.

Did You Know?

• More than 50 million U.S. adults provide unpaid care to loved ones.
• Approximately 85% of long-term care services are provided by unpaid caregivers.

A little encouragement goes a long way.

Jesus showed us what it means to love others through compassion and action. We can carry that example into our everyday lives by noticing where help is needed and finding ways to show up.

Twelve Ways to Support a Family Caregiver from UNSEEN: How We’re Failing Parent Caregivers & Why It Matters, caregiverdoc.com.

Helpful Information. Practical Support.

Caring for someone you love often brings questions, decisions, and responsibilities you may never have anticipated. Whether you're caring for an aging parent, a spouse, or another loved one, knowing where to turn for information and support can make a difference.

Sometimes, the most helpful resource is someone who has been there, understands what you're experiencing, and is willing to share what they've learned along the way. That's part of what inspired Caregiver's Journey at Our Saviour's.

Caregiver's Journey: Learning and Supporting One Another

Caregiver's Journey grew out of the personal experiences of OSLC members who understand firsthand the challenges of caring for someone you love. They also know how meaningful it can be to connect with others who understand, share experiences, ask questions, and learn together.

Today, they help bring people together each month for conversation, encouragement, and practical support. With the experience of a licensed geriatric nurse and a nursing home administrator, along with the perspectives of those currently navigating caregiving, there's plenty of wisdom to share and room for everyone's story.

We believe this is one way we live out our faith: by showing compassion, sharing what we know, and walking alongside one another through life's challenging seasons.

Helpful Caregiving Resources

Every caregiving experience is different, and sometimes a little information can help you feel more prepared for what's ahead. These organizations offer helpful guidance, education, and support for caregivers.

National Resources:

• AARP Family Caregiving: Practical advice, planning tools, and guidance for navigating caregiving.
• Family Caregiver Alliance: Caregiver education, support, and resources for different caregiving situations.
• Caregiver Action Network: Information, tools, and encouragement for family caregivers.
• National Alliance for Caregiving: Research, advocacy, and information about family caregiving.

Illinois Resources:

• Illinois Department on Aging: Information about aging services, caregiver assistance, and available programs.
• Illinois Family Caregiver Coalition: Resources and advocacy for unpaid family caregivers.
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program: Information and advocacy for residents of long-term care facilities and their families.
• University of Illinois Extension: Educational information and resources for caregivers.

Did you know?

Our Saviour's has a collection of mobility and recovery equipment available to borrow, including:

• Canes
• Walkers
• Wheelchairs
• Shower Seats

If you or someone you know could use these items, contact the church office for more information.

Join us for Caregiver's Journey at Our Saviour's on the last Friday of each month. We'd love to have you at the table.

Not sure where to start? The Illinois Department on Aging and AARP's Illinois Caregiver Guide are two great places to begin exploring available support.

Coming Soon.

Coming Soon.