In honor of November's National Family Caregivers Month, Placer County Public Health is stepping up to acknowledge the unsung heroes that play a crucial part in home health care—family caregivers. The department is introducing a new caregiver survey and will also be providing a free Virtual Dementia Tour on November 13, aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and empathy for individuals suffering from dementia.
Those shouldering the responsibility of caring for a loved one often do so silently, but Placer County wants to hear their voices loud and clear, the survey is designed to tap into the lived experiences of these caregivers, focusing on critical aspects such as respite care and the day-to-day challenges they face; feedback is intended to inform and bolster the development of future support services in the county. "Family caregivers make an incredible difference every day," Megan Sponholz, who leads the county’s Healthy Aging program, told Placer County's official website, "By sharing their experiences through this survey, caregivers can help us better understand what support makes the most impact, and how we can strengthen services across Placer County."
Interested participants have until January 2026 to complete the survey, which remains open for input. But the county's support doesn't end there; the upcoming Virtual Dementia Tour is an innovative, free event that's set to take place mid-November. This interactive session utilizes sensory tools to simulate the daily experiences of individuals living with dementia, thus fostering heightened understanding and empathy among caregivers and healthcare workers alike.
Placer County’s In-Home Supportive Services is actively seeking more paid caregivers, offering opportunities for those already caring for someone to take on additional hours and help others nearby. The county also provides resources like educational classes to support and strengthen its caregiving community. By encouraging people to balance caring for family and helping others, the county aims to build a stronger, more connected network of support.
