The Connection Center
Resources for Every Stage of Caring for Someone You Love
The resources listed here are provided for informational and educational purposes only. Carolina's Connections Home Health does not determine eligibility for any program, benefit, or service; does not provide medical advice or treatment; and is not affiliated with Medicare, Medicaid, the VA, or any government agency. Listing an outside organization does not imply endorsement, partnership, or guaranteed eligibility.
Caring for a loved one can feel overwhelming — especially when you're not sure where to turn. The Connection Center is Carolina's Connections' free resource hub designed to help older adults, adults with disabilities, veterans, family caregivers, and families find trustworthy information, understand their options, and take the next step with confidence.
Conditions & Caregiver Education
Trustworthy educational resources from leading national organizations — to help individuals and families understand conditions, navigate care, and find support.
Alzheimer's & Dementia
Alzheimer's Association
Education, caregiver resources, local chapter support, and a 24/7 helpline for families navigating memory loss.
Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's Foundation
Expert care guidance, helpline, and resources for people living with Parkinson's and their care partners.
Stroke & Recovery
American Stroke Association
Stroke prevention, recovery resources, and support for survivors and families rebuilding after stroke.
Diabetes
American Diabetes Association
Diabetes management education, nutrition guidance, and resources for individuals and caregivers.
Kidney Disease & Dialysis
National Kidney Foundation
Information on kidney disease stages, dialysis options, and support resources for patients and families.
Heart Disease
American Heart Association
Heart health education, recovery support, and caregiver resources for those living with heart disease.
Arthritis & Mobility
Arthritis Foundation
Resources for managing arthritis pain, improving mobility, and maintaining independence at home.
Vision Loss & Glaucoma
Glaucoma Research Foundation
Education on vision loss, glaucoma, and resources to help individuals maintain quality of life.
Cancer Support
American Cancer Society
Support programs, treatment information, and caregiver resources for those affected by cancer.
COPD & Respiratory
American Lung Association
COPD management education, breathing resources, and support for individuals with respiratory conditions.
Fall Prevention & Home Safety
CDC STEADI Program
Evidence-based fall prevention resources, home safety checklists, and guidance for older adults and caregivers.
Caregiver Support & Burnout
Family Caregiver Alliance
Resources for family caregivers experiencing burnout, stress, or the need for respite and support.
Grief & End-of-Life
National Hospice & Palliative Care Org.
Compassionate resources for families navigating end-of-life planning, hospice, and grief support.
Veterans Resources
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Benefits, health care, caregiver support, and community resources for veterans and their families.
Disability Resources
Disability Rights NC
Advocacy, legal resources, and support for individuals with disabilities living in North Carolina.
Aging & Senior Resources
Eldercare Locator (ACL)
Connect with local aging services, transportation, meals, caregiver support, and more through this national resource.
Equipment & Accessibility Resources
Families often have questions about wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, and other durable medical equipment (DME). Carolina's Connections does not sell, prescribe, or determine eligibility for medical equipment. The resources below can help families learn about options and understand how coverage may work.
Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, VA benefits, or other programs may cover certain equipment when eligibility and medical-necessity requirements are met. Carolina's Connections does not determine eligibility, prescribe equipment, guarantee coverage, or sell medical equipment. Always consult a licensed medical provider and your insurance or benefits program.
Wheelchairs & Power Mobility
Manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and scooters for individuals with mobility limitations.
Walkers, Canes & Rollators
Assistive walking devices to support stability, balance, and safe movement at home and in the community.
Hospital Beds & Mattresses
Adjustable hospital-style beds and pressure-relieving mattresses for home use.
Patient Lifts & Transfer Aids
Mechanical and powered lifts to assist with safe transfers between bed, chair, and other surfaces.
Bedside Commodes & Bath Safety
Commodes, grab bars, shower chairs, and tub transfer benches to support bathroom safety.
Pressure-Relieving Equipment
Specialized cushions, overlays, and mattresses designed to reduce pressure injury risk.
Oxygen & Respiratory Equipment
Home oxygen concentrators and respiratory devices for individuals with qualifying conditions.
CPAP & Sleep Therapy Devices
Continuous positive airway pressure devices for sleep apnea and related conditions.
NC Help, Advocacy & Complaint Resources
Official North Carolina agencies and programs for seniors, adults with disabilities, caregivers, and families seeking assistance, advocacy, or information.
NC DHSR Complaint Intake
File complaints about home care agencies, nursing facilities, and other licensed health care providers in NC.
NC Medicaid Beneficiary Support
Questions about NC Medicaid eligibility, benefits, and enrollment for qualifying individuals.
NC Division of Aging & Adult Services
State agency overseeing aging services, adult protective services, and long-term care programs in NC.
NC SHIIP — Medicare Counseling
Free, unbiased Medicare counseling for NC residents from trained volunteer counselors.
NC Long-Term Care Ombudsman
Advocates for residents of nursing homes, assisted living, and other long-term care facilities in NC.
Adult Protective Services (NC)
Report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults in North Carolina.
Centralina Area Agency on Aging
Local aging services, caregiver support, transportation assistance, and community programs for the Charlotte region.
NC 2-1-1 Help Line
Free, confidential referral service connecting NC residents to local health and human services programs.
Family Caregiver Corner
Because Caregivers Need Support Too.
Caring for a loved one is one of the most meaningful things a person can do — and one of the most demanding. The Family Caregiver Corner is here to help you find information, recognize when you need support, and take care of yourself while caring for someone else.
Recognizing Caregiver Burnout
Learn the signs of caregiver stress and burnout, and find resources to help you recharge and sustain your caregiving role.
Respite Care Options
Understand what respite care is, how to access it, and how short-term relief can benefit both you and your loved one.
Preparing for Hospital Discharge
A practical guide to questions to ask, what to arrange at home, and how to support a smooth transition from hospital to home.
Home Safety Considerations
Identify common home hazards for older adults and individuals with disabilities, and learn practical steps to improve safety.
Communicating with Aging Parents
Tips for having honest, compassionate conversations about care needs, safety, and planning with aging family members.
Dementia Caregiver Resources
Practical strategies, emotional support, and expert guidance for families caring for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia.
Choosing Home Care
Questions to ask when evaluating home care providers, what to look for, and how to make a confident, informed decision.
Taking Care of Yourself
Practical self-care strategies for caregivers — because your health and well-being matter too.
Hospital to Home
A Guide to Navigating the Transition
Returning home after a hospital stay, surgery, or rehabilitation can feel overwhelming for both patients and families. Non-medical home care can play an important supportive role during this transition — providing companionship, assistance with daily activities, and peace of mind.
Non-medical home care does not include skilled nursing, wound care, physical therapy, medication administration, or other clinical treatment. Always follow your physician's discharge instructions and coordinate with your medical team.
Preparing for Home
Before discharge, confirm the home environment is safe and accessible. Arrange for any needed equipment through your medical team. Identify who will provide support during the first days at home.
How We Can Help
Carolina's Connections can help coordinate a care plan and ensure a caregiver is ready to assist on discharge day.
Discharge Day
Understand all discharge instructions, medications, and follow-up appointments before leaving the facility. Arrange reliable transportation home.
How We Can Help
Our caregivers can provide transportation assistance and be present at home to help with the initial transition.
First 24–72 Hours
Rest, hydration, and following medical instructions are the priority. Meal preparation, light assistance, and companionship can make a significant difference during this critical window.
How We Can Help
We can assist with meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication reminders, and companionship during this important period.
First Week at Home
Establish a routine, attend follow-up appointments, and monitor for any changes in condition. Family caregivers may need support during this time as well.
How We Can Help
Our caregivers can assist with transportation to follow-up appointments, errands, personal care, and daily routines.
Continued Support
As recovery progresses, care needs may change. Some individuals benefit from ongoing support to maintain independence, safety, and quality of life at home.
How We Can Help
We work with families to adjust care plans as needs evolve — providing as much or as little support as is helpful.
Community Connections
Sometimes the Help You Need Isn't a Service We Provide — But We Can Help You Know Where to Look.
The organizations listed below are provided for informational purposes only. Listing does not imply endorsement, partnership, affiliation, or guaranteed eligibility. Always verify information directly with the organization.
Transportation Assistance
Food & Nutrition Programs
Housing & Community Resources
Ready to Talk About What Your Family Needs?
Our team is here to listen, answer questions, and help you find the right support — at no obligation.