For many adults, life’s later years are a time to relax and enjoy friends and hobbies. But this stage of life can also bring challenges, including declining health and finances. Instead of the hoped-for independence that comes with retirement, many older adults end up relying on family for care — frustrating for them and overwhelming for caregivers.

As Americans live longer, caregiving demands — and tensions — can grow.

When a recent study revealed a 300% rise in elder abuse among the metro New York area population, we knew we had to step up and ease the burdens of struggling caregivers before their stress became too much to handle. 

That’s why UJA established the Family Caregiver Assistance Program (FCAP). Partnering with organizations like JASA, Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty, New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG), The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Center for Elder Justice, Weill Cornell Medicine, and the Shomer Collective, we’ve provided more than $1 million in grants to support approximately 400 unique families, a number of whom have received assistance on multiple occasions.  Funding has also enabled FCAP to host numerous community trainings.

Most caregivers discover FCAP when they approach one of the participating agencies themselves in search of help.

One such caregiver, Gregory*, recently moved back into his parents’ home after both experienced serious health issues. In addition to handling their day-to-day care, including preparing all their meals, he had to decrease his work hours to accompany them to their numerous medical appointments. A friend knew someone who had benefited from FCAP and told Gregory about the program.

FCAP helped arrange for his parents to receive hot food daily from Meals on Wheels, freeing up Gregory’s time and allowing him to reclaim valuable hours in his work schedule. An aide that will be able to accompany his parents to appointments is set to begin shortly, allowing him to add more work hours — and income.

Before FCAP, Gregory would feel a sense of dread every time his phone rang. “As soon as I’d hear it, I’d be thinking the worst,” he says. “It gives me a peace of mind knowing that someone is with my parents. It’s going to be a tremendous help.”

“We want the caregiver to know that our role is to support them. Our goal is to work together to ensure the best possible care and well-being for everyone involved,” says Donna Dougherty, senior director of JASA’s Legal Services for Elder Justice division. 

“FCAP is not designed to shame caregivers, but to help everyone be healthy,” adds Kayleh Levy-Weller, of UJA’s Caring Department. “We know how complex these situations can be and feel a responsibility to support the entire family.”

For caregivers who are struggling, FCAP is an invaluable resource, ensuring they can take care of themselves while also supporting the people they love most.

For more information on FCAP, contact Kayleh Levy-Weller at .

*Name changed to protect privacy.