In 2020, the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP reported nearly one in five Americans identify as an unpaid caregiver to a loved one. 21% reported their own health as fair or poor, a decrease from merely five years earlier.
In response to a growing need for caregiver support, Pathways for Caregivers was founded. It is the first resource of its kind in Western New York to focus on caregiver needs and respite, while simultaneously creating a safe space for aging loved ones to receive programming. Cradle Beach, Inc., Harmonia Collaborative Care and Lisa Rood, a Senior Program Consultant, have collaborated to offer monthly, four-hour, respite sessions that will allow family caregivers to remain at Cradle Beach’s relaxing campus situated on 66-acres of lakefront property or to leave campus for time to themselves.
Pathways for Caregivers offers family caregivers a break from the daily tasks of caring for their aging loved ones. During each respite, a one-hour support group facilitated by Harmonia Collaborative Care, a licensed mental health provider, will be offered to family caregivers as an opportunity to connect with others. The program aims to give caregivers peace of mind and rejuvenation.
Pathways for Caregivers is offered at no cost. Families interested in participating may call 716-549-6307 ext. 203 or visit www.CradleBeach.org/pathways. Pathways for Caregivers is an Exhale Family Caregiver Initiative. Exhale is funded by the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, Health Foundation for Western & Central New York, Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, and managed by The Philanthropic Initiative.