How to apply for Family Caregiver Support — Louisiana

Who it's for

Louisiana's Family Caregiver Support Program helps unpaid family caregivers. It serves caregivers of adults over 60, and grandparents or other relatives (not parents) who are raising children or caring for a disabled relative age 59 or younger. Caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease or other dementia get preference. Through your parish council on aging, the program offers information and referrals, counseling, support groups, caregiver training, respite care to give you a break, and supplemental services. Call your local council on aging, or the Governor's Office of Elderly Affairs at 225-342-7100.

What you'll need

• A description of the caregiving situation and the help needed

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Family Caregiver Support — Louisiana. 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 a description of the caregiving situation and the help needed — 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. Write down a clear description of your caregiving situation and the help you need.
2. Apply online or call 1-225-342-7100 to ask for Family Caregiver Support in Louisiana.
3. Explain that you are an unpaid family caregiver and share details about the person you care for.
4. Describe the services you may need, such as information and referrals, counseling, support groups, caregiver training, respite care, or other supplemental services.
5. Follow any next steps from your parish council on aging, since services are arranged locally based on your caregiving situation and available funding.
6. Renew your services each year if you continue to need help.

What to expect: After you apply, the local council on aging reviews your caregiving situation and the help requested. Services are arranged based on your needs and available funding, so you may qualify for some services but not others. Caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease or other dementia get preference. If approved, remember to renew each year to keep getting help.

Renewals

annual