How to apply for North Carolina Family Caregiver Support Program

Who it's for

This program helps family and unpaid caregivers with information, access to services, individual counseling, support groups, caregiver training, short-term respite care, and limited supplemental services. It serves caregivers age 18+ caring for someone 60 or older (or any age with Alzheimer's/dementia), and older relatives age 55+ raising children or caring for an adult with a disability. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to see what is available.

What you'll need

• No documents required to start — contact your local Area Agency on Aging

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about North Carolina Family Caregiver Support Program. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need no documents required to start — contact your local Area Agency on Aging — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to find out which services are available in your area — services vary by location across North Carolina.
2. Call the North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services at 1-919-855-3400 or apply online to get started.
3. Speak with a program representative to explain your caregiving situation and ask about services such as respite care, counseling, support groups, caregiver training, and supplemental services.
4. Confirm which services are offered locally, since supplemental services are available on a limited basis and availability varies across the state.
5. Complete any intake or enrollment steps your local Area Agency on Aging requires — no documents are needed to start the process.
6. Plan to renew your participation annually to keep receiving services.

What to expect: After you reach out, a representative from your local Area Agency on Aging will connect you with the services available in your area. There is no income test to qualify. Because services are delivered locally and vary across the state, the representative can tell you exactly what is offered near you and how quickly you can access support. Processing times vary, so ask your local agency for an estimate. Enrollment is renewed annually, so expect a check-in each year to confirm you still need services.

Renewals

annual