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Vital Living

Supporting Caregivers, Strengthening Community

For over 100 years…

East Side Neighborhood Services (ESNS) has empowered individuals to overcome life’s challenges. The Vital Living Program extends this mission by focusing on the well-being of older adults and caregivers, with special support for those caring for individuals with memory loss, Alzheimer’s, or other chronic conditions. As family caregiving becomes a reality for many—over 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia—Vital Living offers the resources, respite, and connection that caregivers need to thrive.

 
 

 Why Vital Living: What is the Need?

  • Nearly 60% of family caregivers report high stress levels, with many experiencing mental and physical health challenges due to caregiving (Family Caregiver Alliance).

  • 40% to 70% of caregivers show significant symptoms of depression, with about 25% meeting criteria for major depression (American Psychological Association).

  • Over 30% of dementia caregivers report a decline in their own health due to caregiving responsibilities (Alzheimer’s Association).

  • 53% of employed caregivers reduce work hours, take less demanding jobs, or leave their jobs entirely to manage caregiving (AARP).

  • The prolonged stress of caregiving increases the risk of chronic health conditions like heart disease and diabetes in caregivers (National Institute on Aging).

Our Caregiver Programming: Making a Difference

 

Our Vital Living Program offers caregivers support that directly enhances their well-being and the well-being of those they care for:

  • Caregiver Support

    • One-on-One Consultations and Group Sessions: Specialized guidance through transitions and challenges unique to caregiving.

    • LGBTQ+ Caregiver Group: Inclusive support group tailored to the unique needs of LGBTQ+ caregivers.

  • Respite Services

    • NE Day Spot: Weekly and monthly programs, including a new Saturday option, providing caregivers a break while their care partners enjoy social engagement with trained staff and enthusiastic volunteers.

  • Technology Education

    • In partnership with AARP’s Senior Planet Program, our tech classes connect and educate caregivers and older adults to access much needed online resources and technology.

  • Door-to-Door Transportation

    • Assistance for medical appointments, grocery shopping, and social outings, and programming- enhancing independence and social connection.

 

 Support Our November Campaign!

This November, we’re raising $30,000 to sustain and expand the Vital Living Program in 2025. Your support will ensure caregivers and older adults continue to access essential services like respite care, technology education, transportation, and caregiver consultations. Every dollar counts toward creating a supportive, intergenerational community where caregivers and their loved ones can feel connected and supported.

Impact of Your Support

  • $10: Supplies and snacks for respite programs serving care receivers and volunteers.

  • $25: An hour of caregiver support in group or one-on-one settings.

  • $50: Three hours of respite for caregivers, offering a well-deserved break.

  • $150: A month of weekly fitness classes for 15 older adults.

  • $1,000: Sponsorship of our Annual Wellness Fair, reaching over 100 community members.

 

 

National and Local Caregiver Resources

Contact Us: For more information, call 612-787-4086 or email vitalliving@esns.org.

Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA)

    • Website: www.caregiver.org

    • Provides caregiver education, a Family Care Navigator tool, respite care information, and online support groups specifically tailored to dementia caregiving.

National Institute on Aging (NIA) – Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias Education and Referral Center (ADEAR)

    • Website: www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers

    • Offers comprehensive information on dementia, tips for caregivers, and research updates on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

Minnesota Board on Aging (MBA) - Senior LinkAge Line

    • Website: www.seniorlinkageline.com

    • Senior LinkAge Line (1-800-333-2433) provides free assistance to caregivers and older adults, offering help with navigating healthcare, finding caregiver resources, locating respite care, and connecting to community support services, including those for dementia.

Minnesota Leadership Council on Aging (MNLCOA)

    • Website: www.mnlcoa.org

    • The MNLCOA advocates for aging-related policies and offers resources for caregivers. They partner with local organizations to promote caregiver support, Alzheimer’s resources, and dementia care. They also work to improve statewide support through educational programs and policy initiatives.

Alzheimer’s Association Minnesota-North Dakota Chapter

    • Website: www.alz.org/mnnd

    • This local chapter provides dementia support groups, a 24/7 helpline (800-272-3900), caregiver training, and educational events across Minnesota, including virtual programs.