Annapolis, MD (November 8, 2023) - The Anne Arundel County Department of Aging and Disabilities will observe National Family Caregivers Month during the month of November. Caregiving is a tough job. This month we recognize the people who lovingly care for and comfort a loved one, friend, or neighbor, this includes veterans and service members. In many cases, the caregiver is a family member and the act of caregiving can be overwhelming; impacting the individual’s social, emotional, physical, and financial well-being.
According to an AARP statewide survey, there are approximately 760,000 Marylanders who serve as caregivers and are providing unpaid family care valued at $12.5 billion annually. Providing around-the-clock care to a family member or a friend can be both rewarding and stressful. It is important for family caregivers to have support systems and to take time for themselves to monitor their own well-being. There are a number of resources and support groups available to assist caregivers.
The Anne Arundel County Department of Aging and Disabilities has a wealth of resources to assist caregivers in the county. In addition to one-on-one support for family caregivers, Anne Arundel County's National Family Caregiver Support Program offers:
- Monthly Support Groups
- Educational Workshops
- Quarterly Newsletters
- Stipends to assist with respite care or supplemental services
Anne Arundel County is also home to thousands of veterans and active-duty military members. We are also the first county in Maryland to sign on to the Elizabeth Dole Foundation’s Hidden Heroes Cities and Counties Program, pledging our commitment to supporting the enduring work of military caregivers that often goes unrecognized.
Individuals caring for someone who served, or those who wish to support the campaign can visit HiddenHeroes.org for more information. For more information about the programs and services offered by Anne Arundel County’s Department of Aging and Disabilities including the Caregiver Support Program, please contact us at 410-222-4257 or visit us online at www.aacounty.org/aging. TTY users, please call via Maryland Relay 7-1-1. Alternative formats are available upon request.