Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We're here to help.
Whether you're new to caregiving, have been caring for someone for years, or are looking for ways to support caregivers in your community, we want to make finding information and support easier.
Explore the questions below to learn more about Caregiver Sanctuary, our programs, and how to get connected.
1. Getting Started & Finding Support
What is Caregiver Sanctuary?
Caregiver Sanctuary is a community of support created by Legacy Home & Respite Care Foundation. We help family caregivers access respite, wellness opportunities, education, resources, and meaningful community connections. Our work is rooted in supporting families navigating dementia, while recognizing that caregivers need care, connection, and support of their own.
Who can receive support from Caregiver Sanctuary?
We primarily support family caregivers, with specialized experience serving those caring for loved ones living with dementia or experiencing memory-related changes. Whether you're a spouse, adult child, sibling, relative, or friend providing care, we encourage you to connect with us.
Do I need to consider myself a caregiver to participate?
Not at all! Many people don't recognize themselves as caregivers. If you're helping someone manage daily responsibilities, appointments, personal care, safety, or other needs, you may already be providing care. You don't need a formal title to deserve support.
Does my loved one need a dementia diagnosis?
You do not need to wait for a formal diagnosis to reach out. We recognize that families often begin providing care and experiencing challenges long before a diagnosis is made. Our team can help you explore available programs and determine which services may fit your circumstances.
How do I get started?
The first step is to join Caregiver Sanctuary through our free registration form. Once you're connected, our team can help you explore programs, upcoming events, wellness opportunities, and resources based on your needs.
Do I have to live in Milwaukee to participate?
Many of our in-person programs and community experiences take place throughout the Milwaukee area. However, our virtual support group and some educational resources can be accessed from other locations. Contact us to learn which opportunities are available to you.
2. Programs & Respite Services
What programs does Legacy offer?
Legacy provides several opportunities designed to support the well-being of family caregivers, including:
- Virtual Caregiver Support Group
- Caregiver Sanctuary Community Series
- Drop-In Respite Services
- Caregiver Wellness Passport and Wellness Grants
- Family Education and Resources
- Community Wellness Partner Experiences
- Event Respite Services
Each program offers a different way to receive support, build connections, or take time for yourself.
What is respite care?
Respite care provides temporary relief from caregiving responsibilities, allowing caregivers time to rest, attend appointments, run errands, or focus on their own well-being. Our respite programs provide supervised, engaging, non-medical activities for loved ones while caregivers take a much-needed break.
Is respite care available in my home?
Legacy primarily offers community-based respite opportunities. Availability of other respite options, including personalized in-home support, may vary. Contact our team to discuss your needs and learn about available services or referrals.
Is your respite program appropriate for everyone living with dementia?
Every person has different needs, and we want to ensure that our programs are an appropriate fit. Before participating in respite services, our team may discuss your loved one's care needs, mobility, communication, behaviors, and other important considerations. Our programs are non-medical and may not be suitable for individuals requiring certain levels of hands-on or clinical care.
What is the Caregiver Sanctuary Community Series?
The Community Series brings caregivers together for wellness activities, social experiences, educational opportunities, and meaningful connection. Gatherings take place at different locations throughout the community and are designed to give caregivers opportunities to focus on themselves, build relationships, and feel supported.
Can I participate in programs without bringing my loved one?
Absolutely! Many Caregiver Sanctuary programs are specifically designed for caregivers to participate independently. We believe caregivers deserve opportunities to enjoy experiences, connect with others, and focus on their own well-being outside their caregiving responsibilities.
How do I register for events and programs?
You can explore upcoming activities through our events calendar and follow the registration instructions for each program. Some programs require advance registration because space is limited.
3. Support Groups & Caregiver Wellness
Do you offer caregiver support groups?
Yes! Legacy offers a free, virtual caregiver support group every Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Central Time. Our group provides a welcoming space to share experiences, discuss challenges, learn from one another, and connect with people who understand caregiving.
What if I'm not comfortable sharing in a support group?
That's completely okay. There's no pressure to share personal experiences before you're ready. Some caregivers prefer to listen, especially when attending for the first time. You're welcome to participate at your own comfort level.
What is the Caregiver Wellness Passport?
The Caregiver Wellness Passport encourages caregivers to make their well-being a priority through participation in wellness activities, community experiences, support groups, and Caregiver Sanctuary programs. Through engagement, caregivers can work toward recognition and available wellness benefits, including opportunities to apply for Wellness Grants.
What are Caregiver Wellness Grants?
Our Caregiver Wellness Grants provide eligible caregivers with financial assistance of up to $250 toward approved activities that support their personal well-being. Examples may include fitness, relaxation, counseling, creative activities, or other restorative experiences. Grants are subject to eligibility requirements, application review, and available funding.
How do I apply for a Wellness Grant?
Caregivers can submit an application through the Caregiver Wellness Passport page. Our team reviews applications and follows up regarding eligibility, available funding, and next steps.
4. Cost, Eligibility & Accessibility
Is there a cost to join Caregiver Sanctuary?
No. Joining Caregiver Sanctuary is completely free. Many of our caregiver support programs, wellness experiences, and community-based respite opportunities are offered at no cost through the generosity of donors, funders, and community partners. If a particular activity has a fee, that information will be communicated in advance.
Do I need a referral from a doctor or healthcare provider?
No referral is needed to join Caregiver Sanctuary or participate in most caregiver support activities. Certain respite services may require additional information before participation to help determine whether the program can safely meet your loved one's needs.
What if I need help but don't know which program is right for me?
You don't have to figure it out alone. Reach out and tell us a little about your situation. Our team can help you explore available programs, community resources, and possible next steps.
Are your programs accessible to caregivers with disabilities or special accommodations?
We want our programs to be welcoming and accessible. Because our activities take place in different community locations, accessibility features may vary. Please let us know about accommodation needs when registering so we can discuss available options.
5. Caregiver Sanctuary Network & Community Partners
What is the Caregiver Sanctuary Network?
The Caregiver Sanctuary Network brings caregiver support into everyday community spaces. Through partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and community institutions, we're helping create welcoming environments where caregivers can feel seen, supported, and connected to resources. Our goal is to make caregiver support part of the community, not something families have to search for on their own.
What is a Community Wellness Partner?
Community Wellness Partners are businesses and organizations that collaborate with Legacy to offer welcoming spaces, wellness experiences, resources, or other opportunities that support family caregivers. These partnerships help create more places throughout the community where caregivers can find connection and support.
What does it mean to be a caregiver-friendly or dementia-informed organization?
It means understanding the unique experiences of caregivers and individuals living with dementia and taking practical steps to create a more welcoming environment. Through education and training, organizations can learn ways to communicate more effectively, recognize caregiver needs, and respond with greater understanding and compassion.
Can my business, church, or organization become a Caregiver Sanctuary Partner?
Yes! We welcome conversations with businesses, faith-based organizations, community groups, healthcare providers, and other organizations interested in supporting caregivers. Partnership opportunities may include hosting wellness experiences, providing meeting spaces, participating in training, sharing resources, or supporting community-based respite initiatives.
Does Legacy offer caregiver and dementia education or training?
Yes. Legacy provides educational opportunities to help families, volunteers, organizations, and community members better understand dementia, caregiving challenges, communication, and supportive practices. Organizations interested in training can contact us to discuss available opportunities.
This link opens training information and general contact details, not a dedicated request form.
6. Getting Involved & Additional Support
How can I volunteer with Legacy?
Volunteers are an important part of our work! Depending on program needs, volunteers may assist with community events, caregiver experiences, administrative support, outreach, and activities for individuals living with dementia. Visit our volunteer page to learn more about current opportunities.
How can I support Legacy's mission?
There are several ways to help strengthen caregiver support in our community. You can make a donation, become a community partner, volunteer, sponsor an event, or help spread awareness about the needs of family caregivers. Every contribution helps us expand opportunities for respite, wellness, education, and community connection.
What if I need immediate help or emergency support?
Legacy is not an emergency response service and does not provide crisis intervention. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911. For mental health crisis support in the United States, call or text 988. For non-emergency caregiver concerns, you can reach out to our team for information about available services and community resources.
Still Have Questions?
You don't have to navigate caregiving alone. Whether you're seeking support for yourself, exploring options for a loved one, or interested in supporting caregivers in your community, we'd love to hear from you.