Information for Caregivers

Through a grant from the National Family Caregivers Support Program (NFCSP), the Baltimore County Department of Aging (BCDA) Caregivers Program serves family caregivers of Baltimore County residents over age 60, as well as grandparents over age 55 with primary care responsibility for grandchildren. The program offers a variety of resources to help family caregivers provide good care for their relatives and take better care of themselves.

Upcoming Events

Please note that events are subject to postponement or cancellation as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves. Please check often for updates, or contact the Caregivers Program.

Phone: 410-887-4724
Email: caregivers@baltimorecountymd.gov

Caregivers Conference: Creative Caregiving—Thinking Outside The Box

Tuesday, November 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Join us virtually and learn creative strategies for family care partners to care well for their loved one and themselves. We will learn to think creative in facing challenges and considering solutions while focusing on staying healthy and positive in our role. We will also consider how to include music and play to bring meaning to our days.

Access to a computer, laptop, tablet or internet is required to participate. Participants may call in using a phone, but will not be able to see the presentation.

Registration is required. Email caregivers@baltimorecountymd.gov or call 410-887-4724 to register.

Virtual Resource Sessions

Learn about the many services and programs BCDA has to offer! These free sessions are also a great way to have your caregiving questions answered and connect with other caregivers. Sessions typically last one hour.

September 29 from 1 to 2 p.m.
October 13 from 1 to 2 p.m.
October 25 from 11 a.m. to Noon
November 10 from 11 a.m. to Noon
November 29 from 1 to 2 p.m.
December 13 from 1 to 2 p.m.
December 29 from 11 a.m. to Noon

Registration is required. Email caregivers@baltimorecountymd.gov or call 410-887-4724 to register.

Caregiver Support Network

This program will be held the third Wednesday of each month from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The goal of the Caregiver Support Network is to provide a safe and welcoming environment for caregivers to share their challenges and successes, while also learning effective strategies to enhance their caregiving. Each session will begin with a guest presenter and follow with supportive conversation.

September 15 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.—Presenter: Sherry Kolbe, Getting the Most Out of Medicare and Annual Changes
October 20 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.—Presenter: Marsha Kaplan, Engaging Activities and Discovering Creativity
November 17 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.—Presenter: Yvonne Yentsch, Thriving—Not Just Surviving the Holidays
December 15 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.—Presenter: Kim High, Fall Prevention, Home Safety and the Benefits of Staying Engaged

Registration is required. Email caregivers@baltimorecountymd.gov or call 410-887-4724 to register.

Dealing with Dementia Workshops

Dealing with Dementia is a free, educational support program for caregivers of people living with dementia that includes a four-hour workshop for either family or professional caregivers of people living with dementia and the 300-page Dealing with Dementia Guidebook. The following workshops will be held virtually, internet and technology required.

Tuesday, September 14 from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 23 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Wednesday, November 17 from Noon to 4 p.m.
Thursday, December 9 from Noon to 4 p.m.

Registration is required. Email caregivers@baltimorecountymd.gov or call 410-887-4724 to register.

Outreach and Education

Outreach events, especially for family caregivers, are offered throughout Baltimore County in senior centers, the work place, houses of worship and area universities. To learn about upcoming events, contact Maryland Access Point (MAP) of Baltimore County by calling 410-887-2594.

Educational events focusing on people with disabilities are hosted by the Baltimore County Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) member organizations. View the ADRC event calendar.

Guides and Resources

Family Caregiver's Booklet

Family Caregiving: The Art of Caring for Your Older Relative (PDF) is a 48-page guide developed and published by BCDA. This helpful resource offers tips, strategies and guidance to family members who are caring for their loved ones. Within the guide’s 20 chapters, readers will gain information and insight to guide and assist them with the challenges of caring for an older relative, while also taking care of themselves.

Quarterly Newsletter

Caregiver Connection is a free, quarterly newsletter filled with practical information, helpful strategies, event announcements and new resources for family caregivers of older adults. Subscribe online to receive the electronic version of the newsletter.

Community Resource Guide

An annual regional directory of services and resources for seniors and people with disabilities, the Community Resources Guide is available online and in paper version at your local senior center and public library.

Support Programs

Individual Consultations

BCDA Caregivers Program staff will offer free individual consultations to eligible family caregivers of older adults who would like support, guidance and resource suggestions regarding the care of their older relative. Limited financial assistance may be available to qualified families to pay for respite services. If your relative is over age 60 and lives in Baltimore County, call 410-887-4724 to arrange a Caregiver Consultation to review your options.

Support Groups

Local support groups are an important resource for caregivers to talk with others about problems and solutions. Some support groups are general and others are specific to a certain disease or condition. Contact the group you are interested in, for more information.

Center Connection

The Center Connection Program is designed for individuals who need supportive services to participate in Senior Center programs, but do not need physical assistance or close supervision.