The second new program offered by VHS this fall is professional in-home education and support for caregivers. This program is run by VHS on behalf of the Hudson County Office on Aging. It offers caregivers in-home education on how to care for their elderly relative. It also focuses on the needs of the caregiver and provides advice on how to deal with the emotional and physical burdens associated with caring for an elderly person. Any person taking care of a Hudson County resident who is 65 or older is eligible for this service. 

 

The in-home education program is especially valuable in light of statistics that cite that more than two-thirds of all primary unpaid caregivers are employed full or part time. Further, evidence shows that more than half of these caregivers provide care with no outside support. Many also become injured while giving care to their elderly loved one due to inexperience.