Caring for the Caregivers: A Conversation with AARP Fort Wayne Volunteers

This article is brought to you by AARP Indiana, Fort Wayne volunteer Bonnie Pomerantz.

Recently, PBS Fort Wayne’s LIFE Ahead featured a timely and important discussion on caregiving—something that touches the lives of more than 63 million Americans. Two AARP Fort Wayne volunteers, Jeff Hale and Karen Bartrom, joined the program to share insights, resources, and encouragement for caregivers and their families.

Caregiving: A Growing Reality
As host Sandy Thompson noted, more than half of us will, at some point, either become a caregiver or need one. With 10,000 people in the U.S. turning 65 every day and advances in medical care helping people live longer, the need for caregiving is only expected to grow.

Karen, who has spent her career as a nurse working with older adults, spoke about the challenges families face.

“One of the biggest frustrations is just the overwhelm of really not knowing how to navigate through all the options… Sometimes it’s the payer system, sometimes it’s a lack of training, and oftentimes families just don’t know where to turn.”

That’s where organizations like AARP and local agencies step in.

The Five Steps of Caregiving
Jeff explained that AARP offers practical tools to help families prepare for and manage caregiving. Among them are five essential steps:

1. Have the conversation. – Talk openly with your loved one about their wishes.
2. Build a team. – Include family, friends, neighbors, or faith communities for support.
3. Stay sensitive. – Respect the person’s needs and emotional responses.
4. Plan ahead. – Anticipate changes and challenges.
5. Take care of yourself. – Avoid burnout by building in time for rest and support.

The last step, Jeff emphasized, is critical: “If you can’t breathe, you can’t care for others.”

Resources That Make a Difference
Both volunteers highlighted several resources for caregivers throughout the program.

- AARP Caregiver Resource Center – Packed with articles, tips, and guides for every stage of caregiving.
- Aging & In-Home Services – A local “clearinghouse” that connects families with services such as home health care, respite care, and transportation.
- 211 Helpline – A free, statewide resource to connect people with housing, healthcare, food, and more. Dial 211 or 1-866-211-9966.

Karen also noted new respite programs available in parts of Northeast Indiana, giving caregivers a much-needed break while ensuring their loved ones receive quality care.

Advocacy Beyond Discounts
Many people think of AARP primarily for its travel and retail discounts, but as Jeff explained, advocacy is at the heart of its mission. AARP volunteers regularly meet with legislators to support policies that make life easier for older adults and caregivers, whether that’s funding respite care programs or improving access to services.

“We consider ourselves advocates,” Jeff said. “We bring the voices of people across the state to the Statehouse, making sure lawmakers hear the real challenges Hoosiers are facing.”

Why This Conversation Matters
Caregiving is both rewarding and demanding. It can strengthen family bonds but also cause stress, burnout, and financial strain. The good news is that resources, community support, and careful planning can make the journey easier.

As Karen reminded viewers, “Caregivers don’t have to go it alone. There are resources and people ready to help—you just need to know where to look.”

For more information, visit the AARP Caregiving Resource Center or contact Aging & In-Home Services in Northeast Indiana.