6. what are the benefits of the Family Support
model?
Although the benefits of the Family Support
Center have not been specifically tested, there is
a strong empirical foundation for the model. A
number of studies have identified the key sup
port needs of families:
l Information - about the disease and about the
wide array of issues and resources surrounding
it
* Skills - in planning, decision-making, problem-
solving, caregiving, and coping
* Respite - from the constant demands and
stresses of caregiving and care receiving
l Support - the knowledge that there will always
be a place to turn, a resource center, and
peer support group, or a friendly voice
What does research show about how these
kinds of services improve health and well-being?