Caregiver Resource Center

Help us plan for future programs for caregivers based on interest through Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Caregiver Resource Center (CRC)! 

This short survey is a collaborative effort with the Sullivan County Office for the Aging and RSVP and should only take a few minutes of your time. We appreciate any feedback provided and will utilize it for future program offerings, workshop offerings, and education resources to be offered by the CRC moving forward. 

To fill out the survey, you can access the online version here or request a printed copy from the Caregiver Resource Center at sullivancrc@cornell.edu or (845) 292-6180 ext. 122. All paper copies must be turned into the CRC, whether by mail, email, or turned into the front desk at the Extension office.

Family caregivers who are assisting an aging, ill or disabled family member or friend can take part in a range of programs and services offered through The Caregiver Resource Center, a program offered in partnership by CCE Sullivan and the Sullivan County Office of the Aging.  We invite you to explore these pages, find out about what we offer, and call or come by to take advantage of all that we offer.

You can reach the Caregiver Resource Center at (845) 292-6180 ext. 122 or sullivancrc@cornell.edu.

Who is a Caregiver?

Caregivers make up all segments of our community~ Mothers & Fathers, Husbands & Wives, Sons & Daughters. The Office for the Aging knows that 80% of all care that is received by our older population is given through an informal care system made up of family members, friends and neighbors.

Their compassionate care & determination makes it possible for an elderly, ill or frail family member or friend to receive the help where and when they need it.

The multiple responsibilities of a caregiver equals a job and a half!

If not for all of the support provided by our informal caregivers, many elderly Sullivan County residents could not stay in their homes. 

CRC Services

Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Office for the Aging of Sullivan County work together to help both the senior and the caregiver. Services assist those who are caring for a family member and help the senior to remain in the lifestyle of their choosing for as long as possible.

Information/Resources/Referrals

Caregivers can call the CRC for general assistance, and for referrals to area agencies that would provide services appropriate to their unique situation.

Support Groups (NEW for 2023)

Family caregivers are welcome to join a weekly support group providing a safe, non-judgmental environment in which caregivers can talk openly with each other about their issues and concerns.

The weekly Zoom meetings are held Tuesdays at 4:00 pm and caregivers need to register in advance and will then be able to attend all future meetings. Caregivers may join in either by phone or by computer. 

• Share practical ways of coping
• Discover others in the same situation, who do understand
• Find new information and resources
• An opportunity to share your feelings & frustrations

Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group

The Caregiver Resource Center, in collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter, hosts two monthly meetings for caregivers assisting an individual with Alzheimer's disease or any form of dementia. At the present time, these will be virtual meetings, conducted by ZOOM conferencing, and participants can join by phone or the internet. We plan to hold in-person support groups as soon as COVID-19 safety measures allow it.

The groups provide an opportunity to chat with others who can offer helpful suggestions and a safe space to share. 

Meetings are offered on the third Wednesday of the month at 4:00 pm via zoom or phone.

Supplemental Services

The Office for the Aging Case Managers coordinate support services, meeting the senior’s needs. Caregivers are invited to participate in these support plans.  The Office for the Aging can be contacted at (845) 794-3000 ext. 5000.

Respite

A temporary break from caregiving responsibilities can be arranged by utilizing adult day services, in-home care or short-term placement in a long-term care facility. Arrangements are made by the Office for the Aging.

The Caregiver Resource Center is a co-partnered program between Cornell Cooperative Extension and Office for the Aging of Sullivan County and is supported by a grant from the NYS Office for the Aging’s Caregiver Program.

Last updated September 1, 2023