Library to Support Caregivers Through Programs and Resources

  • By Baltimore County Public Library

The Baltimore County population is aging, and becoming a caregiver can be overwhelming and isolating for many. But you don’t have to do it alone. Through a $40,000 grant and working with the Baltimore County Department of Aging, we are rolling out a series of programs and providing resources to better support a caregiver’s journey. We are also expanding our Library of Things in 2026 to help your loved one feel empowered and gain back some independence.  

A Personal Perspective 

AARP claims 24 percent of adults are currently acting as an unpaid family caregiver for elderly or disabled loved ones. Because it can feel isolating, we are hosting a lineup of programs where speakers and authors are sharing their perspectives. This includes host of “Daughterhood The Podcast,” Rosanne Corcoran. We took a peek into her story.  

Portrait of Rosanne Cocoran

Q: Creating your podcast, “Daughterhood The Podcast,” came from your own caregiver journey. When did you realize you moved into that role and what impacts did it have?
A: My caregiving happened gradually over time. Even though I knew my mother’s doctors, what medications she took and her medical history, it was still the hardest thing I have ever done. I was a sandwich caregiver; I cared for my mother while I had young children, and every aspect of our lives was touched by it. Balancing her care with my children’s school activities, proms, graduations and life in general was an experience not only in time management but also in managing guilt. I always felt guilty about something. When I was caring for my mother, I felt like I should be caring for my kids and vice versa.  

Q: What are some signs that people are stepping into that caregiver role before they may be aware of it? 
A: Picking up groceries, managing medications, calling insurance companies or pharmacies, arranging transportation, organizing and/or paying bills for a loved one, even checking in on them on a regular basis. And because these things fall under the guise of “what you do for your parents,” adult children don’t identify themselves as caregivers until a crisis occurs.  

Q: What is one misconception about caregiving that you often hear? 
A: That “it’s just like taking care of a baby.” I realize people often need something to compare it to so they can try to understand it, but that’s not it. When you care for a baby, they are learning, growing and moving forward. When you are caring for your parents or your spouse, these are grown adults with their own opinions, habits and routines who are declining. There can be denial and stubbornness, and because change is inevitable, there is always grief. Changing a baby’s diaper and changing an adult’s diaper is a completely different experience.  

Q: What is one piece of advice you have for caregivers whether they’re just stepping into that role or are veterans? 
A: Find your people. It is imperative to receive support through this journey. If the people in your life don’t understand or are not a source of support, it’s okay to look elsewhere. Even if you have a strong support system, being around others in similar situations can allow you to feel less alone. You are part of the equation. It’s not just about who you are caring for; you matter too. 

You can hear more from Rosanne during our virtual program, A Caregiver’s Journey With Rosanne Corcoran, on Tuesday, February 24, at 7 p.m. Other speaker appearances include: 

The cover of the book Some Bright Nowhere

We also have programs focused on tips to make the experience a little easier and some self-care for the caregivers. 

Health and Wellness Kits  

We are proud to expand our Library of Things collection in late spring with a focus on supporting caregivers and their loved ones. Several of these items are great for testing the item that may help family members be more independent before purchasing one, and others are useful tools for caregivers to use with individuals who may have memory gaps. The full list includes: 

  • Busy Cubes
  • Flexible Grabber Tool
  • HandyBar
  • Light Therapy Lamp
  • Magnifier
  • Portable Pedal Exerciser
  • Pulse Ox Kits
  • Sound Machines
  • Track Marble Maze 

We currently have blood pressure kits and memory kits available for borrowing.  

As your community connector, this investment into programs and resources shows our growing commitment to caregiving support. We also have a curated collection of books geared toward caregivers. Browse the collection and place a hold.

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