Caregiver Action Network (CAN)

Mission:
Caregiver Action Network (CAN) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing education, peer support, and resources to family caregivers across the United States, including those in Louisa County, VA and surrounding regions.

Services and Programs:

• Educational Resources: CAN offers a comprehensive toolbox of checklists, guides, and practical tools tailored for every stage of caregiving. Resources are searchable by disease/condition, resource type, or caregiver role.
• Peer-to-Peer Support: Family caregivers can access peer support through online communities, including a Facebook group, and connect with others who share similar experiences.
• Condition-Specific Support: CAN provides specialized information and support for caregivers dealing with a wide range of conditions, such as addiction, Alzheimer’s, cancer, COPD, heart failure, Huntington’s, mental health challenges, Parkinson’s, rare diseases, schizophrenia, sickle cell disease, stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and more.
• Emotional Support: The organization offers emotional support resources and advice for managing the challenges of caregiving, including practical tips for handling behavioral issues and stress.
• Financial & Legal Tools: CAN provides guidance on how to get paid as a family caregiver, access government benefits, and navigate legal and financial aspects of caregiving. Downloadable checklists and guides are available.
• Respite Care & Volunteer Services: Through partnerships such as Community Care Corps, CAN supports innovative local models where volunteers provide nonmedical assistance to family caregivers, older adults, or adults with disabilities to help maintain independence.
• Clinical Trial Support: Information and support are available for caregivers involved in clinical trials.
• Community Engagement: Caregivers are encouraged to share their journeys, find resources, and connect with others through CAN’s community platforms.

Who They Serve:

CAN serves family caregivers of all backgrounds, including those caring for older adults, individuals with disabilities, and people with chronic or serious health conditions. Services are available nationwide and accessible online, making them available to residents of Louisa County and neighboring areas.

Eligibility:

There are no specific eligibility requirements; resources and support are open to all family caregivers regardless of location or background.

Additional Initiatives:

• National Family Caregivers Month: CAN leads efforts to recognize and honor family caregivers each November.
• Advocacy and Public Policy: The organization is involved in public policy and advocacy efforts to support caregivers at the national level.