Caring for a loved one can often feel overwhelming, especially when resources are limited and guidance is hard to find. Beth, a family caregiver from Illinois, knows this challenge well as she cares for her husband. For years, Beth was unaware of the support available to her as a caregiver, but after a recommendation from a coworker, she connected with TCARE and discovered an invaluable network of resources. Her story is one of resilience and a testament to how the right support can make a world of difference.

Discovering TCARE: A Life-Changing Experience

Beth had never been informed of the resources available to caregivers. She shared, "Nobody told us anything." It wasn't until her husband turned 60 that a coworker who cared for her own husband suggested Beth reach out to senior services. Following this advice, Beth connected with both McHenry County services and senior services and was eventually assessed through TCARE. Beth described this assessment as “a really great experience,” explaining, "They came in, made an appointment, explained everything to us. Within 24 hours, they got back to me to say, ‘yes, you definitely qualify for this program.’”

Through TCARE, Beth was connected to crucial resources, including counseling sessions—a service she had never been able to afford before. “It was nice to be able to talk to someone about the things that are going on with me,” she expressed, grateful for the support she found in counseling.

Navigating Additional Support Resources

Along with counseling, Beth was approved for in-home services to assist her for 1-2 hours each day. While she knows the worker won’t be able to attend to her husband’s most critical needs—like administering medications, respiratory treatments, and helping with bathing—the extra help offers her a chance to recharge. Beth was also connected to daily meals on wheels and referred to a local food pantry.

Beth admitted she initially believed the food pantry was only for people with disabilities or older adults and hadn’t realized she qualified. “I would have gone to the pantry over the past nine years if I knew about it and was eligible,” she remarked. However, getting to the pantry before it closes remains a challenge, and there is often little food left by then. Despite these obstacles, Beth is appreciative of the support TCARE has provided, giving her some relief from the constant demands of caregiving.

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Partner with TCARE

At TCARE, we are dedicated to supporting caregivers through every aspect of their journey. Our personalized care solutions and resources are designed to help caregivers like Beth find the support they need to navigate their roles with confidence and strength. If you’re looking for guidance on accessing services or emotional support on your caregiving journey, TCARE is here to help.