Senior Source describes caregiver supports, warns of gaps in South Dallas

Kimberly Knight, director of caregiver support at the nonprofit Senior Source, told the Dallas Senior Affairs Commission on March 17 that the organization offers case management, education, support groups and a volunteer telephone check-in program aimed at reducing caregiver stress.

Knight said the Senior Source’s caregiver support program served about 2,250 caregivers last year and that 82 percent of those who used services reported reduced caregiver-related stress afterward. "The caregiver support program in particular is there to focus on caregivers, and we focus on family caregivers," Knight told commissioners.

The program provides a care consultation (typically 30–60 minutes) that assesses needs, makes referrals and helps families put legal documents such as powers of attorney in place. It also offers support groups (including Spanish-language and LGBTQ-plus groups), educational seminars, a "caring callers" volunteer phone check-in program and home-safety visits to identify trip hazards and other risks.

Why it matters: Commissioners and community members pressed Knight on service gaps in South Dallas and on access for underserved groups. Commissioners said respite care, the ability to pay for short-term in-home help and awareness of services…