Tips for First-Time Family Caregivers in Michigan
Becoming a caregiver for a loved one can be both rewarding and overwhelming — especially when you're doing it for the first time. Whether you’re caring for an aging parent, a disabled adult child, or another family member, there’s a lot to learn about routines, support, and benefits available through programs like Michigan’s Home Help Program.
This guide shares practical tips to help new family caregivers navigate the journey with confidence and care.
🧠 1. Learn What Counts as Care
As a caregiver, you may assist with things like:
Bathing and dressing
Preparing meals
Managing medications
Preventing falls or wandering
Helping with hygiene or toileting
These tasks are often referred to as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), and understanding them is important when applying for services or communicating with medical professionals.
📄 2. Apply for Support Early
If your loved one is on Medicaid and needs help at home, you may be able to get paid through Michigan’s Medicaid Home Help Program.
Steps include:
Submitting an application (DHS-390)
Getting a doctor to complete a DHS-54A Medical Needs form
Scheduling a home visit from an Adult Services Worker (ASW)
Registering as a caregiver through CHAMPS
Starting early helps avoid delays in getting approved or paid.
🗂 3. Keep Records
Start a simple care notebook or folder that includes:
A daily log of tasks performed
Medication list
Appointment dates
Copies of forms and communication with the state
Staying organized makes it easier to answer questions, especially during reassessments or redetermination periods.
📞 4. Build a Communication Routine
Talk regularly with:
Doctors and healthcare providers
Medicaid or MDHHS caseworkers
The person receiving care (if possible)
Other family members involved in caregiving
Clear communication can prevent missed forms, medical misunderstandings, or duplicate tasks.
⚖️ 5. Take Care of Yourself Too
It’s easy to forget your own needs when you're busy helping someone else. Remember to:
Take breaks when you can
Ask for help from other family members
Join a support group, even online
Set boundaries and protect your mental health
Caregiver burnout is real — and preventing it helps both you and your loved one in the long run.
🧭 6. Know When to Ask for Help
Don’t hesitate to seek guidance with:
Forms or Medicaid paperwork
Scheduling doctor visits
Understanding what services are covered
Applying for other benefits like food or housing assistance
There are many organizations and community programs in Michigan that offer free or low-cost help to caregivers.
👣 Final Thoughts
Being a first-time caregiver is a major responsibility — but you don’t have to figure it out alone. With the right tools, support, and mindset, you can confidently care for your loved one and access resources that ease the burden.