Caring in Community: The Beginning of Caregivers with Love
In our Latino communities, caring for older adults is not just a responsibility—it is an act of love, respect, and a deep connection with our roots. However, many times that care falls on the shoulders of family members who do not always have the information, support, or tools they need.
The Caregivers with Love program was created precisely to accompany those who provide care. This first session of the curriculum is an introduction to a learning journey that honors our traditions and equips us to care better.
Why is this program important?
In Minnesota, more than 83% of the care received by older adults is provided by informal caregivers: children, partners, siblings, neighbors, and close friends (National Alliance for Caregiving & AARP, 2020). This support is even more relevant in Latino communities, where the value of family and cultural closeness are pillars of caregiving.
However, the health and service systems are often not adapted to our culture or our language. This gap creates stress, isolation, and emotional overload for caregivers. Caregivers with Love responds to this reality with practical tools, emotional support, and training spaces designed especially for our community.
What will you learn in this first session?
During the session, we will address key topics such as:
• What does it mean to be a “Caregiver with Love”?
• What challenges do Latino older adults face as they age in the U.S.?
• What resources and strengths exist in our communities?
• How can mutual support make a difference?
We will also share information about local statistics and reflect on the importance of caring in community and not in isolation.
Key Fact
Latino older adults are more likely to experience isolation, language barriers, and lack of access to culturally appropriate health care (Ortman, Velkoff & Hogan, 2014). That is why it is so important to strengthen caregivers with information, community, and practical strategies.
Practical Recommendation
Make a list of people in your family or community who can help you care for an older adult. Identify who can offer:
• Emotional support
• Transportation
• Help with paperwork
• Company for medical appointments
Creating a support network not only benefits the older adult—it also allows you to take care of yourself.
Join us!
At Centro Tyrone Guzmán, we believe that caregiving is an act of community. The Caregivers with Love program provides tools, guidance, and training spaces that recognize and value your effort as a caregiver.
Contact us today for more information about upcoming sessions or how to participate. We are here to support you!
References
National Alliance for Caregiving & AARP. (2020). Caregiving in the U.S. Retrieved from https://www.caregiving.org/research Ortman, J. M., Velkoff, V. A., & Hogan, H. (2014). An Aging Nation: The Older Population in the United States (Current Population Reports, P25-1140). U.S. Census Bureau. https://www.census.gov/prod/2014pubs/p25-1140.pdf