Cupcakes and Caregiving: Here’s Help

Providing care for a family member can be one of the most rewarding and most challenging tasks that any person can face.

On Nov. 22, AARP will honor caregivers as part of National Family Caregivers Month by giving away cupcakes and information at the Downey Farmers Market, 11039 Downey Ave., from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. AARP caregiving experts will be available to answer questions and provide resources.

Across California, more than 4 million people help with food preparation and other chores so that their loved ones can remain in their homes. These unpaid caregivers often must balance work and other demands with the needs of the family members they’re helping.

“Family caregivers are the backbone of California’s long-term care system, and they need help and support to sustain their important roles,” said Charee Gillins, AARP California associate state director.

This year, AARP California supported the California Caregiver Act, which would have established a privately funded blue-ribbon task force to make recommendations to the Legislature for improving access to support services and programs for family caregivers. The legislation was vetoed by Gov. Jerry Brown (D).

For more information on caregiving, visit the AARP Caregiving Resource Center at aarp.org/caregiving or call 877-333-5885 toll-free.

Share your caregiving story at aarp.org/iheartcaregivers. —Laura Mecoy