Caregiver Connections: Aging in Place

This article first appeared in the 2023 It Takes A Valley Impact Report >

Caregiver Connections is Growing to Provide Support, Education, and Resources

With the number of older adults in Eagle County on the rise and 70% of people preferring to age in place, Caregiver Connections is expanding its reach to address the growing need to support caregivers and those needing care.

Caregiver Connections’ mission is to connect family caregivers of older adults to resources and respite that will empower them to be the best caregivers they can be. This mission drives the organization’s efforts and programs, aiming to help residents age comfortably in their homes.

“About 40% of caregivers report depression and anxiety,” says Samantha Hodgkins, Executive Director of Caregiver Connections. “This is why our partnership with Vail Health Behavioral Health is so appropriate. And with Vail Health now assuming responsibility for case management for older adults, we are getting more referrals to help more people.”

Building a Support System

Caregiver Connections supports Eagle County adults and their families, regardless of socio-economic status, through low- or no-cost services and educational resources.

Care Consultations allow caregivers and the care recipient to express concerns and get one-on-one guidance with an Aging Life Care Specialist to help move forward after receiving a difficult diagnosis of dementia, Parkinson’s, or other conditions with cognitive impact. Senior Spot allows those under care to socialize in activities like chair yoga, games, music, and special outings while giving caregivers some time for themselves. It remains the only program of its kind in Eagle County.

Educational programming includes the popular Healthy Aging Speaker Series, presented in partnership with Eagle County Healthy Aging and Vail Health. The Medical Supply Closet loans out equipment like walkers and bed rails. A private Facebook group pairs paid caretakers with local care recipients.

Fostering Connections

Because the conditions that affect families don’t discriminate, the organization facilitates support groups for dementia and Parkinson’s as a lifeline for families navigating these challenging diseases. “Caregiving isn’t just for the elderly. Whether it’s a spouse, aging parent, or adult child, there are lots of questions, unknowns, fear, and anxiety,” explains Samantha. “Our services fit well with Vail Health’s Eagle Valley Behavioral Health. Caregiving takes a real toll on the emotional well-being, not only of the care recipient but of the caregivers as well.”

Samantha adds, “Without Vail Health’s funding through philanthropy, we wouldn’t be able to offer all the great programming that provides peace of mind, trusted relationships, and community ties, all of which go a long way toward mental stability, wellness, and grounding.”