CAREGIVER SUPPORT
Help for You and Someone You Love
Whether you're helping a spouse, parent, relative or friend, you don't have to figure everything out by yourself.
A CAREGIVER MOMENT
Sometimes the Smallest Things Mean the Most
As Madear got older, I learned that helping someone you love is not always about doing something big.
Sometimes it is sitting beside them, singing a familiar song, sharing a devotion, fixing something small or simply being there.
Those moments reminded me that care is not only about appointments, meals and responsibilities. It is also about presence, dignity and making someone feel remembered.
I also learned something important about the person doing the caring: it is easy to focus so much on what your loved one needs that you forget to ask what you need.
NOT SURE WHERE TO START?
Start With Mississippi Access to Care
Mississippi Access to Care helps older adults, adults with disabilities, caregivers and families understand services and find the right place to begin.
You do not need to know the name of the program before you call.
Call 844-822-4622MISSISSIPPI FAMILY CAREGIVER SUPPORT
There May Be Support for You, Too
Mississippi's aging network provides caregiver assistance through local Area Agencies on Aging. Services can vary by area, but caregivers may be able to get help finding services, receiving support and taking an occasional break.
Finding Services
Get information about programs and services available to the person you're caring for.
Getting Connected
Get help navigating local resources and understanding where to apply or who to call.
Support & Training
Depending on your area, caregiver counseling, support groups or training may be available.
Respite Care
Temporary relief may be available so a caregiver can rest, attend appointments or take care of other responsibilities.
Supplemental Support
Certain limited services or supplies may be available depending on eligibility and local program resources.
Start With One Call
Mississippi Access to Care can connect you with the Area Agency on Aging that serves your community.
RESPITE CARE
It's Okay to Need a Break
Respite care provides temporary relief for caregivers while someone else safely helps care for your loved one.
Availability and eligibility vary, but respite may be offered in different settings depending on the program.
MEMORY LOSS & DEMENTIA CARE
Caring for Someone With Memory Changes?
Mississippi offers caregiver support for families caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease, related dementias or cognitive impairment.
Services may include caregiver support, education and respite assistance depending on eligibility and program availability.
Call Mississippi Access to Care: 844-822-4622
Email: msdementia.care@mdhs.ms.gov
HELP FOR THE PERSON YOU LOVE
What Do They Need Help With?
You don't have to search the whole site. Choose the need below and go directly to the right Anchored Help page.
A Little Help for Everyday Caregiving
Choose one idea that would make your day a little easier. There's no need to tackle everything at once.
Keep things together
Use a notebook or folder for appointments, important phone numbers and questions you want to ask. Keep it somewhere easy to find.
Ask for one specific thing
“Could you bring dinner on Tuesday?” or “Can you handle the grocery pickup?” gives someone a clear way to help.
Make room for their choices
Offer simple choices when possible: which shirt to wear, what music to hear or what activity to enjoy. Small decisions can help a person feel included.
Enjoy an ordinary moment
Every visit doesn't need to be about a task. Sit together, look at a photograph, share a laugh or listen to a favorite song.
Include yourself in the plan
Make room for your meals, rest, appointments and time with people who encourage you. When you need a longer break, ask someone you trust to help arrange coverage.
Something to Enjoy Together
Let their interests and energy guide you. A few pleasant minutes can be enough.
- Look through family photos and share the stories behind them.
- Play a favorite song and remember where you first heard it.
- Try a word game together, taking turns if you like.
- Read a short story, scripture or encouraging thought aloud.
- Ask a familiar question: “What was Sunday dinner like growing up?”
Helping Manage Medicare?
Mississippi SHIP provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling for older adults and caregivers. They can help explain coverage, claims, appeals, supplemental insurance and other Medicare questions.
Go to Medicare HelpYou Don't Have to Carry Everything Alone
Start with one need, one phone call or one small step. And when you need a moment for yourself, Anchored Souls is here with activities, encouragement and something to enjoy.