Caring for a parent or loved one as they age is never simple. The good news is that there are resources to help you get prepared for the most overwhelming emergencies before they happen.

In recognition of National Family Caregivers Month, here are 4 free resources to explore and share:

1. BenefitsCheckUp®

Financial emergencies can be stressful. That’s why it’s good to know you can turn to NCOA's trusted online tool BenefitsCheckUp.org to screen for, and apply to, over 2,500 local, state, and federal benefits programs. Our comprehensive tool matches your unique needs to benefit programs and eligibility requirements, helping your older loved one pay for food, medicine, heating bills, health care, and other vital everyday necessities. Another great benefit: The BenefitsCheckUp® team continues to monitor the benefits landscape for updates and changes to policies and programs so you have the latest information. 

2. Falls Prevention Resource Center

As a caregiver, you may worry about your loved one having a fall. The truth is that an older adult falls every 11 seconds, and falls can lead to serious injury or even death. They also can rob an older adult of their independence.

Our falls prevention resources give you and your older loved ones the tools you need to make their homes safer, maintain strength and balance through proven exercise programs, and keep their bones healthy through proper nutrition.

3. ElderCare Locator

Few of us want to think about long-term care for ourselves or our loved ones, but 2 in 3 older adults will eventually need some level of assistance with daily activities. The ElderCare Locator can help you find in-home care services, nursing homes, hospices, and more near you. Visit https://eldercare.acl.gov/ or call 1-800-677-1116 to find help in your community.

Don’t wait until an emergency forces you to make a difficult decision. Check out these tools and have a plan for dealing with some of your challenging choices. 

4. NCOA Map of Partners and Programs

NCOA has partners like area agencies on aging and senior centers and programs that can help older adults. Use the map to search and locate an NCOA partner or program nearest to you. You can search by such topics as economic security and healthy living and find Aging Mastery Program sites.