You're not alone. Unpaid caregivers (family members and friends) provide most of the care to older individuals who need assistance with everyday activities like bathing and dressing. Informal caregivers are an important part of providing long-term care services to the elderly and persons with disabilities.

Grandparents raising grandchildren is also a growing trend in many families. Older people face unique challenges when they accept the responsibility of providing full time care to a child 18 and under.

The North Dakota Family Caregiver Support Program funded under the Older Americans Act provides for a system of support services to help informal caregivers of older adults and grandparent/relative caregivers who are caring for children. Caregivers who do not have access to a support system may experience burnout that can lead to increased stress and other problems. This program offers assistance to help relieve some of the challenges associated with providing care.