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Shauna, from Butler County, cared for her aunt during the last years of her life and was willing to do whatever she could. “She knew she could call me for anything.”

But where could Shauna turn for help with all the ins and outs of being a caregiver? The answer: Council on Aging.

Shauna provided care for her aunt Lois – her mother’s sister. “Lois had no one else – she lived alone, had no children and no spouse,” Shauna says. “She and I basically had an understanding throughout her life that I would be her caregiver as she grew older.”

The caregiving journey began in September 2021 when Shauna received a call at work from Lois indicating she needed help. That led to hospitalization, surgeries, complications and a stay in a nursing home.

When Lois was able to be discharged to her ranch home, the fact that she lived alone proved a challenge. Wanting Lois to be supported at home, the nursing home suggested Council on Aging’s FastTrack Home program which provides support, on a temporary basis, after a stay in a hospital or nursing home.

Through FastTrack Home, Lois received modifications to help her safely navigate her home; shower bars and a handheld shower wand were installed to lend stability in the bathroom, skid protection was added to her basement steps and ensured her safety when heading downstairs to do laundry.

Lois also received an emergency response system as well as a home health aide to visit a few hours each week to help with home upkeep.

Throughout Lois’ return home, Shauna was incredibly grateful for the support FastTrack Home provided to her aunt, but also for her as a caregiver.

“It was my first experience dealing with an elderly relative, and it was an eye-opener for me,” Shauna said. “It is so helpful knowing there are agencies out there that can help me and I don’t have to do all the things by myself. You provide a crucial service.”