The city of Lincoln, Neb., is looking to provide additional support to caregivers – and combat caregiver burnout – via a new website.
Through Aging Partners, a department in the city government focused on coordinating and advocating for older people in the community, Lincoln has launched a new website to help caregivers and families build skills, increase confidence, and decrease feelings of loneliness.
The free-to-use website was developed in coordination with Trualta, an online education and support platform for caregivers.
“We hope this will help caregivers get the additional support they need, often from their own home when time allows,” said Randall Jones, Aging Partners director. “This will be especially valuable for individuals in rural communities where a support system may not be readily available.”
According to Aging Partners, the easy-to-navigate online service provides caregiver support through video, audio, eLearning, and print content in English and Spanish. Topics include brain health, intellectual and developmental disabilities, personal care, grandparents supporting grandchildren, dementia, diabetes, safety and injury prevention, music therapy, caregiver wellness, stroke recovery, grief and loss, as well as activities and recreation.
“We know it can be hard to find time to get resources or attend a caregiver support group,” Jones said. “This website can give caregivers the opportunity to get some of that from the comfort of home, any time of day or night.”
The portal also has available caregiver support groups, including specialty, general, and drop-in groups to enable caregivers to connect with others in similar care situations. For caregivers who may be reluctant to open up in a support group, the website also offers educational webinars to answer tough questions for everyday needs.
Care coaches are also available upon request to provide one-on-one coaching for caregivers who need a listening ear and may need help navigating the portal or local resources. They also can share tips about managing care at home.
