Department on Aging seeks input from family caregivers during Sept. 27 roundtable

QUINCY — To gain insight into the needs and challenges of family caregivers in west-central Illinois, the Illinois Department on Aging, in partnership with the West Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging, is hosting a caregiver roundtable at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27 at the Quincy Senior and Family Resource Center at 639 York, Room 110.

In a press release, IDoA director Paula Basta said, “Illinois’ family caregivers are as diverse as the state as a whole, with different backgrounds, family dynamics, strengths, and access to resources. We want to ensure IDoA is meeting their unique needs, helping caregivers manage their stress and balance other life responsibilities. I’m excited to kick off this series of caregiver roundtables to hear from residents in every part of Illinois about how IDoA can more effectively support their caregiving journey.”

“People in our area tend to look after one another and know their neighbors very well,” said West Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging Director Michael Drew. “Supporting family and friends that care for older adults in our region is an important way to help them stay in their home safely. Our goal is to provide tools and resources to support these caregivers which helps everyone involved in the caregiving process.”

Currently in Illinois, an estimated 1.5 million family caregivers provide an estimated 1.4 billion hours of care to family members during any given year. IDoA is hosting a series of regional roundtable discussions to hear directly from caregivers about the challenges they face and to explore strategies to strengthen support services, including counseling, respite and care training for family members.

Attendance is open to adults of all ages who provide some level of unpaid care to an aging parent, spouse or other family member. Attendees’ insights will help shape future policies and initiatives that address the specific concerns of family caregivers across Illinois.

To RSVP for the Sept. 27 caregiver roundtable, contact Chris Spohr at chrisspohr@wcian.org or 217- 223-7904 ext. 170. RSVPs are requested by Wednesday, Sept. 20, to ensure adequate arrangements for seating and materials.

IDoA serves and advocates for older Illinoisans and their caregivers by administering quality and culturally appropriate programs that promote partnerships and encourage independence, dignity and quality of life. For information about the Department’s programs and services for older adults and persons with disabilities, visit https://ilaging.illinois.gov/programs.html or contact the Senior HelpLine toll-free at 1-800-252-8966, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.