Virginia Family Caregiver Stakeholder Workgroup: Recommendations for Improving Family Caregiver Support in Virginia 2018

The Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) convened the Virginia Family Caregiver Stakeholder Workgroup beginning in July 2017 in response to requests from legislators and advocates to study and develop ways for the Commonwealth to encourage and support families and communities in assisting aging adults and individuals with disabilities. The purpose of this work plan is to address the recommendations developed by the workgroup and to lay out a plan for DARS’ collaborative engagement with sister state agencies.

The final report from the Virginia Family Caregiver Stakeholder Workgroup, included recommendations to support annually state funded Lifespan Respite vouchers and to promote volunteer respite care programs through university and community college academic programs and faith-based and nonprofit organizations.