About this resource
Powerful Tools for Caregivers is an evidence-based education program offered by WellWise Services that helps family caregivers develop the self-care skills they need to reduce stress and sustain themselves in their role. Rather than focusing on the person receiving care, this program is centered entirely on the caregiver — a recognition that caregivers who care for themselves are better able to care for others.
The program runs as a series of classes, typically meeting once a week for six weeks. Led by trained leaders, each interactive session builds practical “tools”: managing stress and difficult emotions like guilt and anger, communicating effectively with family members, doctors, and the care recipient, making tough caregiving decisions, setting goals and solving problems, and finding and accepting help. Caregivers leave with a personal toolkit and an action plan, plus the support of others who understand the journey. A companion guidebook, The Caregiver Helpbook, reinforces the lessons.
This resource matters because caregiver burnout is widespread and consequential, and Powerful Tools for Caregivers directly addresses its root causes by strengthening the caregiver’s own resilience and skills. Studies of the program have shown improvements in caregiver self-care, confidence, and emotional well-being. As an evidence-based program delivered by a regional aging-services organization in south-central Michigan, it is both credible and accessible, and it is typically offered at low or no cost. Caregivers can learn more and register through WellWise Services at wellwiseservices.org/caregivers.
What you'll get from this resource
- An evidence-based program from WellWise focused entirely on the caregiver's own self-care and resilience.
- Typically six weekly classes building tools for stress, communication, decisions, and accepting help.
- Includes The Caregiver Helpbook and the support of peers; shown to improve caregiver well-being.
- Typically low or no cost; register through wellwiseservices.org/caregivers.
Frequently asked questions
Family caregivers of any kind who want to reduce stress and build self-care skills; the program focuses on the caregiver, not the care recipient.
Managing stress and emotions, communicating effectively, making tough decisions, setting goals, and finding and accepting help — typically over six weekly sessions.
Visit wellwiseservices.org/caregivers to learn more and sign up; it’s typically offered at low or no cost.
We're here to help.
You've found your partner in caregiving. Connect with your local Area Agency on Aging for personalized services, programs, and support in your area.
