Who can help caregivers with money concerns?

Any one of us can be thrust into the role of caregiver without much notice.  Across the nation, it is estimated that 34 million people are caregivers to someone over the age of 50.  Nearly half of those caregivers are people caring for someone with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia.

Not only does caregiving create a tremendous worry about health issues, it can also create serious financial situations as caregivers have to take time off from work and make other adjustments.

So, where can you go for answers - especially about financial issues?

The VA WNY Healthcare System offers a variety of programs that can help families dealing with a veteran.  You can contact the Buffalo VA about options at (716) 862-7447 or go to the following link: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/

A very popular local option is a VA caregivers support group that meets every Tuesday at 3131 Sheridan Drive in Amherst.  The group provides emotional support and also brings in experts to talk about elder law issues.  More information about the support group is available by calling (716) 862-3158.

Those caring for an older person who is not a veteran, Erie County Department of Senior Services has several options available to help.  Caregivers with questions are invited to call (716) 858-8526 or go to the following website: http://www2.erie.gov/seniorservices/

Erie County is reminding all caregivers of its annual Elder Law Day to be held on June 18, 2018.  The event brings together experts on a variety of issues related to caring for an older person.  You can register by calling the Erie County Department of Senior Services.  Elder Law Day will run from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Adams Mark Hotel at 120 Church Street in Buffalo.

7 Eyewitness News Reporter Ed Reilly has more in his report.

Another option for caregivers looking for answers, is a support group run in North Tonawanda: