Caregiver Corner: Mary Beth New
Caregiving is a journey that requires immense patience, time, and heart. While it can often feel overwhelming, many caregivers find that the role brings a profound sense of purpose and joy.
This month, our Caregiver Corner spotlights Mary Beth New of Hardin County, who serves as the primary caregiver for her grandmother.
For Mary Beth, stepping into this role wasn’t an obligation, it was a natural extension of her love. When asked about her daily experiences, Mary Beth shared a perspective that beautifully captures the essence of compassionate care:
“It’s a blessing to care for someone you love, not a chore. I just enjoy making my grandma happy.”
Mary Beth’s dedication reminds us that at its core, caregiving is about preserving dignity, creating moments of joy, and returning the love that our elders poured into us. Her story is an inspiration to caregivers across the Lincoln Trail region who work quietly every day to keep their loved ones safe, comfortable, and smiling at home.
Caring for an aging adult or a person with a disability in the home is deeply rewarding, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Through the National Family Caregiver Support Program, LTADD offers resources to help ease the burden on family caregivers.
Available benefits and support can include:
- Information and Assistance: Help navigating the complex network of aging services.
- Respite Care: Temporary relief to give primary caregivers a well-deserved break.
- Supplemental Services: Limited funds to help with essential supplies, adaptive equipment, or home modifications.
- Caregiver Counseling & Training: Resources to help you manage stress and learn best practices for safe care.
If you or someone you know is providing in-home care for an older adult (age 60+) or an individual of any age with a disability or chronic condition, reaching out to LTADD is the first step.
- Connect with an Aging and Disability Resource Counselor (ADRC): Call our main office at 270-769-2393 and ask to speak with an ADRC specialist.
- Complete a Brief Assessment: Our counselors will ask a few questions about your caregiving situation to determine which programs and benefits best fit your family’s specific needs.
- Explore Options: We will guide you through the application process for local, state, and federal caregiver assistance programs.
Thank you to Mary Beth New and all the family caregivers in our communities who make the Lincoln Trail region a more compassionate place to call home.
Need immediate resources? Visit our Aging & Independent Living Services page to learn more about the support structures available to you.
