Siblings Becoming Caregivers Guide

This guide from the Utah Parent Center is designed as a practical, customizable tool to help siblings and families organize critical information about a person with disabilities, especially as caregiving roles shift over time. Like other care notebooks, it brings together key details—such as medical history, daily routines, contacts, and supports—into one central place so information is easier to find, update, and share with caregivers, professionals, and family members. The notebook emphasizes planning ahead, helping siblings understand the needs of their brother or sister and prepare for future responsibilities, particularly during transitions to adulthood or changes in family roles.

The document also functions as a guided workbook, with structured sections and fillable pages that prompt families to record personal profiles, care needs, schedules, services, and preferences. It encourages personalization—families can add, remove, or adapt pages—so the notebook reflects the individual’s unique needs and the sibling’s role. Overall, the goal is to build confidence, reduce stress, and support long-term planning by giving siblings clear, organized information and a stronger understanding of how to participate in caregiving and advocacy.