Caregivers help with a variety of routine tasks such as shopping, paying bills, bathing, dressing, and managing medications. They are often a source of emotional support and companionship for care recipients.

The CDC acknowledges that caregiving is a health concern, with 1 in 7 caregivers developing coronary heart disease and/or a stroke, increasing to 1 in 5 for caregivers aged 65 and up. Furthermore, a recent study conducted by the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers indicated that nearly 2 in 10 employed caregivers had to stop working, while 4 in 10 had to reduce their working hours to care for a loved one.

Program Details

In an effort to support caregivers, five community-based organizations in WNY have come together to increase access and support for caregivers and their loved ones. Buffalo Federation Neighborhood Centers, Compeer, Schiller Park Senior Center, Erie County Department of Senior Services, Clinical Healthcare Management Services and Hearts & Hands are collaborating with a region wide Exhale Initiative to increase access to services for caregivers.

We are offering a unique opportunity for caregivers and their loved ones to attend a 4-hour program of planned activities, plus nutrition and support networking. The program is designed to provide fun and uplifting activities for the care recipient to enjoy, while the caregiver participates in a separate program that will provide them with a break, build their support network, and empower them with additional tools for caregiving.