The USC Family Caregiver Support Center (FCSC) is offering a newly created, free caregiving training program to improve the skills and career opportunities for both paid and unpaid caregivers in Los Angeles County, especially for those who care for older adults with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The program is funded by the CalGrows workforce training and development grant program, part of California’s Master Plan for Aging.
FCSC’s training program tackles common challenges faced by caregivers, such as transportation, childcare, access to technology, and the cost of training. By offering financial help and various ways to access training, including online and in-person sessions, the program is designed to make it easier for caregivers to participate.
“We are excited to offer this program that addresses the real needs of our diverse caregiving community,” said Donna Benton, director of the USC FCSC and a professor of gerontology at the USC Leonard Davis School.
Benton notes that caregivers of older adults with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias face numerous challenges, including managing difficult behaviors and experiencing high levels of stress, emotional strain, and burnout. Additionally, many caregivers lack access to adequate training and support, making it difficult to provide the best care possible. These challenges are compounded by logistical issues like balancing caregiving with work, transportation, and finding affordable resources.
“This program will empower caregivers with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed now and in the future,” she said.
Program Highlights Include:
Customized Training Content: This free training is designed to meet the diverse needs of older adults in LA County. It includes essential caregiving topics and video modules that caregivers can choose based on their interests and goals.
Financial Incentives: Paid caregivers can apply for up to $3,500 in stipends for completing CalGrows courses. Upon completion, they will also receive a certificate from the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology.
Diverse Target Audience: The program serves a wide range of caregivers, including unpaid family members and paid professionals from various cultural backgrounds. This includes Black, Latino, Indigenous, Asian and Pacific Islander (API), and LGBTQ+ communities. The courses are offered in English, Spanish and Chinese.
Extensive Outreach Efforts: The FCSC will promote the program through newsletters, social media, and local ethnic media outlets. They will also work with trusted local organizations to reach as many caregivers as possible.
The CalGrows program seeks to help build individual skill sets, job satisfaction, and growth opportunities to help further careers and the retention of skilled, experienced caregivers for older adults and people with disabilities. CalGrows is one of more than 200 initiatives under California’s Master Plan for Aging (MPA), launched in 2019 as a blueprint to prepare the state for the growing older adult population and continue California’s leadership in aging, disability, and equity.
For more information, visit the USC FCSC CalGrows webpage or email calgrows@usc.edu.
About the USC Family Caregiver Support Center
The Family Caregiver Support Center (FCSC) at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology is home to the LA Caregiver Resource Center and national grants that provide evidence-based virtual and in-person training programs for paid and unpaid caregivers throughout Los Angeles County. The center offers resources to help caregivers manage their responsibilities and improve their quality of life.
