AARP and United Way launch 211 program for Alaska caregivers
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AARP Alaska has partnered with United Way to provide a new resource for Alaska’s 94,000 family caregivers. AARP Alaska and United Way Worldwide are using the 211 helpline to connect residents with trained, compassionate navigators and available local resources. Through 211, a free health and human services information and referral helpline, caregivers can now talk to real people in their community to find local resources for themselves and their loved ones.
The goal of this program is to identify family caregivers via 211 and match them with critical resources to:
Address necessities such as housing, food and employment that take the focus off caregiving.
Connect to local services and organizations, with guidance from specialists and experts, for help getting loved ones to medical appointments and access to food delivery services, home safety, veterans’ benefits, etc.
Simplify access to specialized help while anticipating changes in care situations.
Help the family caregiver navigate their own personal concerns and challenges that come with caregiving.
“I’ve been a caregiver for years, and I recognize the tremendous mental and emotional toll it takes, making it even more difficult to navigate the maze of available resources,” said Teresa Holt, AARP Alaska state director. “The partnership with 211 simplifies the process by connecting caregivers with financial, medical, and emotional support right in their community.”
“Across America, 211 is seeing continued demand for local services to help family caregivers and their loved ones,” said Joshua Pedersen, senior director of 211 at United Way Worldwide. “Often, someone might call, text or chat 211 to find out what support is available for their loved one, and the call specialist is trained to hear when they need more support for themselves, too. By joining forces with AARP, this will help fill a critical resource gap.”
211 trained call specialists respond to 50,000 requests for help every day all over the U.S. and tap into 1.5 million locally curated resources. Alaskans can get the local information they need by simply dialing 211 today for free help. Dial 211 or visit http://www.aarp.org/211care.
