Connecticut Paid Leave and state aging services offer respite and supports for caregivers, including those facing dementia

Nancy Barrow, host of The Paid Leave Podcast, opened the episode with a focus on dementia and caregiving and invited three state aging officials to explain services and leave options available to Connecticut families.

Jodi Brazal, program manager of the Connecticut statewide respite care program at the Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services, said the department’s mission is to help older adults and people with disabilities "maintain their independence" and live "with dignity." Brazal emphasized the agency’s person‑centered approach as it adapts services to rising demand: "one in four Connecticut residents is now over the age of 60," she said.

Jennifer Switalski, a field representative and project coordinator for the Bureau of Aging, described the bureau’s role in helping caregivers navigate benefits and supports, including information and referral, support groups and respite. "We focus on specifically helping caregivers navigate the system," Switalski said, adding that Connecticut follows a "no wrong door" approach so callers can be routed to needed resources regardless of where they start.

Switalski and colleagues outlined several facts and supports listeners should know: the bureau estimates roughly 130,000 family caregivers in Connecticut are supporting people with disabilities and dementia; more than half of caregivers have been providing care for more than three years; and many older adults live alone. Switalski also described practical help available under federal and state programs. "Under the National Family Caregiver Support Program ... we include respite up to $7,500 worth of respite care, summer camp support, [and] after‑school activity support," she said.

On employment protections and leave, Switalski noted that caregivers may be able to use the federal Family and Medical Leave Act and Connecticut Paid Leave when eligible, including intermittent leave or reduced schedules. "You can apply for FMLA and Connecticut Paid Leave if it's applicable," she said, describing leave as an option to manage caregiving tasks while remaining employed.

Meghan Brady, the bureau’s Dementia Services Coordinator, discussed the growing prevalence of earlier‑onset dementia and the implications for both people diagnosed and their family caregivers. Brady said some people with early diagnoses remain in the workforce and may need time for treatments such as infusions or for financial and estate planning. "That there are new treatments ... taking time off to be able to do that" is one reason workers may use leave benefits, she said.

Speakers also highlighted non‑leave resources and structural barriers that limit access: affordable housing and broadband equity are pressing needs, Brazal said, and transportation gaps prevent older adults in rural areas from reaching services. Brady described assistive technology, from medication reminders to home assessments supported by the Connecticut Tech Act, as tools that can help older adults "age in place."

The guests encouraged caregivers to seek supports early and to recognize themselves as caregivers: Brazal and Switalski said many people do not label what they do as caregiving and may miss available services. Switalski, speaking from personal experience as a caregiver, urged taking respite when needed and using supports such as home aides to preserve family well‑being and job continuity.

For people seeking practical guidance, Brady pointed to a resource guide hosted by the state at ct.gov/ctcaregiverguide; Barrow closed by directing listeners to ctpaidleave.org for information on applying for Connecticut Paid Leave.

The episode concluded with the bureau staff encouraging caregivers to ask for help, use respite options when eligible, and consult the state guide for next steps. No formal policy changes or votes were discussed during the podcast.