Alabama Cares  

Alabama Cares is a program designed to support family caregivers by providing training, assistance and resources to help them take care of their loved ones while maintaining their own health.  "Choice for Independence" through AoA, describes the options offered to senior citizens allowing them to remain in their home and community.

Families, not social service agencies, nursing homes or government programs, are the foundation of long-term care (LTC) for older persons in the United States.  According to 2006 data, persons 65 and older numbered 37.3 million representing 12.4% of the U.S. population.  That number is expected to grow to 20% of the population by 2030.  Nearly one out of every four U.S. households (23 percent of 22.4 million households) contains at least one caregiver for a relative or friend.  These caregivers include spouses, adult children, grandparents, and other relatives and friends.

Caregivers play a vital role in helping seniors maintain their health and independence.  Although caregiving is rewarding, it can have a negative impact on the health and well-being of the caregiver.  Caregiving has its greatest impact on the emotional health of caregivers, particularly the caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's/Dementia and strokes. 

Alabama Cares strives to keep families together and to allow seniors to remain at home instead of moving to costly long term care facilities.  Funds are limited, but utilized to reach those desiring to remain in their own community by providing available services.

Who can get these services?

  • Primary Caregivers of frail, older adults age (60) and older
  • Grandparents/Relative Caregiver (55+) caring for children with a severe disability of any age

Priority consideration is given to:

  • Caregivers caring for those in greatest social and/or economic need (particularly low-income, minority individuals)
  • Older Caregivers (60+)
  • Caregivers caring for those suffering with Alzheimer's and related disorders
  • Caregivers providing for those who live in rural areas.
  • Caregiver and Care Recipient with critical health needs

 What does this cost me?

Income does not prevent a person from receiving assistance from the Alabama Cares Program; however, financial means is considered when prioritizing those most in need.  A sliding scale based on the National Poverty Guideline is used to determine the client's shared cost for certain services.  Cost sharing is represented, but will not prevent someone from receiving services.  Contributions or donations are accepted by the Area Agency on Aging and used to provide additional services and reach those on the waiting list. 

How can I Apply for services?

Call your Area Agency on Aging (1-800-AGE-LINE) and request information on the Alabama Cares Program.  Additionally, you are encouraged to visit our statewide website http://www.alabamaconnect.gov/ which is a database of organizations providing services to older adults, individuals with disabilities and their family members.