Care Connection

	View our video which explains the program: The ALS Care Connection (Part 1) The ALS Care Connection (Part 2)

Have You Tried the ALS Care Connection?

When ALS strikes a family, the emotional, physical, financial and learning challenges can be overwhelming for family members to address. Friends and extended family want to help but are often unable to identify what is needed by the family. In turn, family members are often reluctant to ask for help or are overstressed and unable to articulate the needs.

The development of an ALS Care Connection team is a method to help families get the community support that is needed without stretching the abilities of those who volunteer. This plan presents an opportunity for family and friends to share the care in an organized and coordinated manner. Utilized successfully, this approach to care can gift the family and PALS with appropriate, helpful attention as well as love and caring. At the same time, this option is designed to meet the needs of extended family and friends who want to share talents and time in a way that is truly going to help. A successful ALS Care Connection Team provides a “win-win” response to ALS challenges for ALS families and the larger caring community.

We Train the Coordinator(s)!!

Below is a simplified listing of steps needed to create an ALS Care Connection

1. The person with ALS (PALS) and family identify someone not directly involved in immediate caregiving to be the ALS Care Connection Coordinator/Scheduler.
2. The PALS and caregivers make a list of anyone and everyone they know that might be interested in learning about becoming part of a Care Connection team.
3. The PALS and caregiver make a list of current needs to help the PALS or the caregiver.
4. The Coordinator then sends letters to all potential members of the circle explaining the concept and inviting them to a meeting.
5. A meeting is held without the presence of the PALS or immediate family members to discuss the disease and the ALS Care Connection concept.
6. Each potential member of the team makes a list of what they feel they can offer in terms of time and help.
7. The coordinator attempts to match the PALS list with the potential team members' lists.
8. A communication system is set up so that all team members can access the Care Connection calendar.
9. Help begins.
10. The coordinator maintains contact with the ALS family and team member volunteers in order to maintain the schedule and make changes as needed.

Important
No person with ALS or caregiver should feel they need to accept unwanted help. No potential helper needs to feel obligated or “required” to provide help. This process only works when all parties are willing and able.

Contact our Chapter at 1-877-568-4347 or by email for more information on the training program or the Care Connection program.