Providing Caregiver Support

At Catholic Charities, we see so many people come to us living in a challenging situation. Often, they have done nothing wrong, but rather, something has changed in their world and they cannot make it on their own. That’s why we exist – to provide help, create hope and serve all – no matter the situation. To serve people in need… like Joyce* and John*

Joyce was referred to the Catholic Charities in Indianapolis Caregiver Support Program by a social worker with Eskenazi Health House Calls for Seniors because she was in need of grab bars. Joyce's caregiving journey began 5 years ago. Joyce had just retired when her friend John had his first stroke. She became his Power Of Attorney (POA) and felt that the care he was receiving in the long-term care system was inadequate. Out of love and care, Joyce moved John into her home. At the time, Joyce was 66-years-old and John was 68, and although she received assistance through home health services, the physical strain on Joyce was significant, as she suffers from high blood pressure and diabetes. And although John could walk, he required stabilization, assistance getting into the bathtub, help to sit and stand, was nonverbal, and continued to have strokes.

To add to the challenges she was facing, Joyce's 44-year-old son also lived in her house. Although he helped when he could, his two kidney transplants made Joyce reluctant to ask for his physical assistance.  

That's when Joyce contacted the Caregiver Support Program.

The Caregiver Support Program provided help through home modifications: grab bars, a hand held shower, a shower chair, and a fire extinguisher. As a result of the modifications, John is able to do more for himself. Although he still needs assistance, he is now able to participate in his care. And thanks to this new-found independence through home modifications, John has spoken a full sentence for the first time since his first stroke! John is making more progress every day. Joyce appreciates the reduction in physical strain on her body and the relief and care she received from the Caregiver Support Program.

For more information on the Caregiver Support Program and other Catholic Charities services, visit HelpCreateHope.org.

Catholic Charities: Providing help. Creating Hope. Serving All.

*Names have been changed