Caring for a Loved One? Support is Available.
Being a caregiver for a spouse, parent, family member or friend can be one of the most meaningful roles you take on — and one of the most challenging. Whether you're helping with daily tasks, coordinating care or navigating health care decisions, it's normal to feel overwhelmed at times. The good news is that you don't have to do it alone.
Many caregivers find themselves stepping into the role without a roadmap. Learning how to navigate medical appointments, coordinate care, understand Medicare coverage and balance family responsibilities can feel overwhelming at first. Taking time to educate yourself about available resources and services can help you feel more confident and prepared for the journey ahead.
As caregiving responsibilities grow, it's important to remember that your own well-being matters, too. Caregivers often put their needs last, which can lead to stress, exhaustion and burnout. Experts recommend building time for self-care into your routine. Stay connected with others and accept help when it’s offered. And know that feelings of frustration, guilt, or grief are normal. Taking care of yourself isn't selfish — it's an important part of being able to care for someone else effectively.
Family caregiving can also be easier when responsibilities are shared. Open communication with siblings, spouses and other family members can help distribute caregiving tasks and reduce stress for everyone involved. Having honest conversations about changing health needs, living arrangements and future care plans can help families prepare for important decisions before a crisis occurs.
For many caregivers, navigating health insurance and Medicare-related decisions is another important responsibility. Understanding coverage options, preparing for annual enrollment periods and helping loved ones make informed health care decisions can give everyone peace of mind. It also helps make sure they receive the care and services they need.
No two caregiving journeys look exactly alike, and it's okay to seek guidance along the way. TRS is here to support you.
Health Plan Resources
Headway
Connect with an in-network mental health provider quickly and easily. You can even get same day matching with providers who have openings within 48 hours.
Mental Health Personal Health Guide
Get real-time help from specially trained PHGs who can help you find a provider or get help in a crisis. Be sure to ask for mental health help when you call 1-866-355-5999, available 24/7.
- Personal Health Guides for TRS-ActiveCare
- Personal Health Guides for TRS-Care Standard
Learn to Live
Get matched with the right digital mental health program for the support you need for issues like stress, anxiety, worry, depression, insomnia and sleep problems, social anxiety, and substance misuse.
24/7 Virtual Health (Medical and Behavioral Visits)
Virtual visits allow participants to connect with a provider or behavioral health specialist anytime using a computer, tablet or smartphone. These visits can be used to ask questions, receive a diagnosis, discuss mental health concerns, and even obtain prescriptions when appropriate—all without leaving home. Available through your member website. Click on “Find Care” and then “Virtual Care.”
Routine Transportation Benefits
$0 copay for 24 one-way trips to and from medically related appointments and the pharmacy, up to 100 miles per trip. Restrictions apply. To make the most of your transportation benefit, call UnitedHealthcare Customer Service, 1-866-347-9507, TTY 711, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. CT, Monday–Friday.
In-Home Non-Medical Care
$0 copayment for 8 hours per month of non-medical personal care services like companionship, meal prep, medication reminders and more with a professional caregiver. Unused hours do not roll over. Some restrictions and limitations apply. Call 1-866-347-9507, TTY 711, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. CT, Monday–Friday.
Healthy At Home
With UnitedHealthcare Healthy at Home you are eligible for at-home specific benefits up to 30 days following all inpatient and skilled nursing facility discharges. A new referral is required after every discharge to access your meal and transportation benefit. Call UnitedHealthcare Customer Service, 1-866-347-9507, TTY 711, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. CT, Monday–Friday for more information and to use your benefits.
Mental and Behavioral Health Issues
TRS-Care Medicare Advantage participants have access to ongoing mental health support, including counseling and wellness resources through Optum® Behavioral Health. To get started, call UnitedHealthcare Customer Service, 1-866-347-9507, TTY 711, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. CT, Monday–Friday or visit your member website and select Virtual Behavioral Health Care.
Calm Health
Caring for your mental well-being is easier with the Calm Health app, available to TRS-Care Medicare Advantage participants at no additional cost. The app offers personalized programs and tools to help manage stress, improve sleep, and build healthier habits—all from your phone. Download the Calm Health app or visit uhc.care/calm/retiree to get started.