The Livable Communities Caregivers Coaching Program (L3C)

L3C aims to develop a corps of volunteers with caregiver coaching skills to be a key part of the Department of Senior Programs and Services overall Livable Communities initiative. The initiative aims to make Westchester communities as senior-friendly as possible so older adults can remain in their homes as they age with dignity, independence and civic involvement.

Organization:

Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services

The Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services, is an Area Agency on Aging that grants or contracts with public and private organizations to provide services for older persons.

Location:

Westchester County, New York

How does it work?

The L3C Program prepares volunteers for an enhanced "good neighbor" role as Caregiver Coaches or people who provide one-on-one support and information to family caregivers.

Classes take place once a week for three consecutive weeks for a total of about 12 hours. Coaches must also attend monthly conversations where challenges encountered during coaching can be shared, solutions generated and information passed along. The time coaches devote to a family caregiver will vary. Volunteers must make a one-year commitment to the program.

Why is it successful?

Results from a formal evaluation are not available yet. However, anecdotal data indicate "People want to know that there is somebody out there who says 'I care enough to help you get through this adjustment; to help you get from Point A to Point B'. said DSPS Commissioner Mae Carpenter.

For more information: www.Westchestergov.com