As the population of older Americans continues to increase, more and more people find themselves providing unpaid care to an elderly family member or loved one. In fact, experts tell us that over 40 million adults currently provide unpaid care to an older (50+) adult. If you are one of them, you are likely to feel physically, emotionally, and financially exhausted. Knowing that, the Essex Junction elder law attorneys at Unsworth LaPlante, PLLC offer resources for family caregivers in Vermont.
The Growth of the Elderly in America
Over the last several decades, the elderly population (those who are 65 years old and older) in the United States has experienced a historical growth. The increase is thought to be a combination of the Baby Boomer generation moving into their retirement years and the noticeable increase in the average life expectancy in America thanks to advances in science and medicine. With more people reaching retirement age and those people expected to live well into their 70s, 80s, and even 90s, the need for caregivers has increased dramatically. Many of those caregivers are unpaid family members or loved ones. In fact, more than one in five adults currently admit to providing care or assistance to a friend or family member in the past 30 days, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Caring for an elderly loved one can take a toll on the caregiver. Many unpaid family caregivers experience a decline in their own health, emotional exhaustion, and financial difficulties as a result of the care they provide. If you are an unpaid family caregiver in Vermont, there may be resources available to help you.
Family Caregiving Resources in Vermont
Understandably, most people prefer to remain in their homes as they age, resisting the move to a long-term care facility as long as possible. Well meaning children, grandchildren, and other family members often step up and offer to provide the care necessary to keep their elderly family members at home. If you are that family member, the following resources may provide some much-needed help:
- Area Agency on Aging. The Area Agency on Aging has over 600 non-profit organizations across the country. While the services offered at each AAA can vary slightly, they may be able to help you with:
- Nutrition. Counseling, home delivered meals, and congregate (group) meals.
- Caregiver Support. Respite care and caregiver training / education.
- Care Management. In-home care assessments and care plan development.
- Information & Referral. Information about home and community-based assistance programs, such as Medicaid, and referrals to administrators.
- Long Term Care Ombudsmen. Information about long term care facilities and investigation of complaints
- Insurance Counseling. Assists seniors in understanding and maximizing the benefits of their insurance, especially Medicare.
- Transportation. Assistance understanding and coordinating shared, non-medical transportation services.
- Age Well.
Age Well is a nonprofit organization operating since 1974, serving Addison, Chittenden, Franklin, and Grand Isle counties as part of Vermont’s Area Agencies on Aging. Dedicated to supporting older adults, Age Well empowers them to maintain their independence and health at home, where they prefer to be. By integrating community resources, health services, and wellness programs, Age Well aims to enhance the quality of life for older adults and reduce barriers to access healthy meals, care, and community resources. With a team of staff members and over 1,000 volunteers, Age Well offers services tailored to meet the diverse needs of clients, their families, and caregivers. All services provided by Age Well are offered free of charge. For more information about Age Well, please visit: agewellvt.org - Choices for Care. Choices for Care is a Medicaid waiver program in Vermont that provides cash to the elderly in place of care services. Your family member may then be able to use that money to compensate you for the care you provide. With the exception of legal guardians and spouses, family members are eligible to be paid through the program.
- Adult Day Services. The Vermont Adult Services Division provides the Adult Day Services program offers a âsafe, supportive environment where people can come during the day and receive a range of professional health, social and therapeutic services, as well as a nutritious meal and valuable social interaction.â Respite, support and education is also available to family members and caregivers.
- Eldercare Locator. If you reach the point at which additional caregiving is necessary, you can search for caregivers and facilities on the Eldercare Locator website. Eldercare Locator is administered by the U.S. Administration on Aging.
Do You Have Additional Questions About Family Caregivers in Vermont?
For more information, please attend one of our upcoming FREE webinars. If you have questions or concerns about family caregiving in Vermont, contact an experienced Essex Junction elder law attorney at Unsworth LaPlante, PLLC by calling 802-879-7133 to schedule your appointment today.
- Young Families Estate Planning in Vermont - May 5, 2026
- 8 Vermont Medicaid Myths Seniors Need to Understand - April 30, 2026
- Things to Consider If Someone in Your Estate Plan Is Not a U.S. Citizen - April 23, 2026
