Caregivers in KC: Planning for the Future

Becoming a caregiver is a responsibility that can sometimes arise unexpectedly. After the birth of a child with a disability, or the health decline of a parent or spouse, caregiving often comes with important financial considerations. 

Health care and supply costs for caregivers can add up quickly, and your income may be reduced as you have less time to work. According to AARP, caregivers on average spend $7,200 of their own money on caregiving expenses annually.  

Make a Plan

First, to avoid being overwhelmed, small steps like creating a caregiving budget and tracking expenses will help you identify patterns and opportunities to plan ahead and seek support. Second, understand your rights and benefits. 

While most standard health insurance plans like Medicare do not directly support in-home caregivers or family caregivers, there are some exceptions and other options for assistance. Medicare Advantage Plans Part C may offer some coverage for caregiver support. And starting in 2025. Medicare Part B will cover some training and substitute care for family caregivers. 

Additionally, veterans benefits may cover some home and community based health care services. 

Support through Medicaid is available for those under a certain income threshold. 

Medicaid provides comprehensive health coverage for low income individuals, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities, often including service not covered by Medicare. However, it’s also known for low reimbursement rates to providers, potential limited choices for beneficiaries, and complex enrollment processes. 

FMLA is a benefit that might be able to help. The Family Medical Leave Act, or FMLA is generally unpaid, but some organizations have specific leave policies or will allow use of flexible work arrangements and/or vacation and sick days. 

There are also some caregiving grants that may be available in your area. 

Connect to Area Resources

An additional consideration for those caring for a person with an illness or disability is making decisions to support their own well-being. 

Area Agencies on Aging often offer respite care, individual counseling, support groups, and caregiver education. 

Elder care locators connect caregivers with local support options such as meals, homecare, and transportation. 

Local hospitals and online platforms may provide caregiver support groups, while religious organizations may also offer guidance and support. 

National caregiver organizations like the Caregiver Action Network, Family Caregiver Alliance, and the National Alliance for Caregiving provide valuable resources. For illness specific support, organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association offer specialized resources, and veterans can access services through the VA Caregiver Support Program, including support groups, counseling, and training. 

Get Documents in Order

It’s important to connect with an attorney to provide you legal recommendations to support you on your caregiving journey. An attorney can provide valuable guidance on estate planning and crafting Power of Attorney, or POA documents. These documents empower caregivers to make crucial financial and help decisions, and it’s recommended that everyone have a POA by age 18.  

Being a caregiver is challenging, but with the right knowledge and support, you can ensure that both you and your loved one thrive. 

For more information and resources, visit kansascitypbs.org/caregiving.