Article by Katherine Hall, Fairfax Area Agency on Aging
(Posted 2024 November)
November is recognized as National Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor and support the dedicated individuals who provide care for their loved ones. This annual observance raises awareness about the challenges faced by caregivers and highlights the invaluable contributions they make to their families and communities. It's an opportunity to celebrate the commitment and compassion of those who often work tirelessly and without recognition, ensuring the well-being of family members and neighbors who may be older, ill, or disabled. The month also serves to advocate for policies and resources that can help ease the burden on caregivers, promoting a more supportive and understanding environment for these unsung heroes.
Fairfax Area Agency on Aging offers a wealth of resources to support family caregivers throughout the year, particularly during National Family Caregivers Month. The Fairfax County Family Caregiver Support Programs provide a range of services, including educational workshops, respite care options, and one-on-one consultations to help caregivers manage their responsibilities more effectively. Additionally, the county's official website features a comprehensive list of resources and support networks tailored to meet the diverse needs of caregivers. These resources are designed to provide practical assistance, emotional support, and valuable information, helping caregivers maintain their own health and well-being while fulfilling their caregiving roles. If you wish to learn more about caregiving resources, call our Aging, Disability, and Caregiving Resource Line at 703-324-7948 or visit FairfaxCounty.gov/OlderAdults.
Family Caregiver Learning Opportunities
Northern Virginia Dementia Caregivers Consortium’s 38th Annual Conference Navigating the Journey: Adjusting the Sails in Dementia Caregiving
Saturday, November 2, 8:30 a.m.-3:45 p.m.
Northern Virginia Dementia Caregivers Consortium’s 38th annual conference Navigating the Journey: Adjusting the Sails in Dementia Caregiving is Saturday, November 2, 2024, located at the Fairfax County Government Center. Join us for the largest dementia conference in the region, designed for family caregivers, volunteers, and professionals in aging services. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your caregiving skills and network with others in the community. Learn more and register here: www.nvdcc.org
In-Person Dementia Friends Information Session
Monday, November 4, 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Join this in-person presentation at Sherwood Regional Library and learn how to become a dementia friend. Turn your new understanding of dementia into practical action that can help someone living in your community. Presented by Allegra Joffe, Supervisor with the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, and Diane Watson, Dementia Friends Champion Volunteer. Register online at bit.ly/FFXSherwoodDFF.
In-Person Dementia Friends Information Session
Monday, November 4, 5-7:15 p.m.
Join this presentation in-person at Goodwin Living and learn how to become a dementia friend. Dinner will be served free of cost for attendees, and pre-registration is required. Turn your new understanding of dementia into practical action that can help someone living in your community. Presented by Allegra Joffe, Supervisor with the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, and Diane Watson, Dementia Friends Champion Volunteer. Register online at bit.ly/DementiaFriendlyFairfax or call 571-407-6961.
Oblivion in Latino Seniors (65+) – In Spanish
Friday, November 15, Noon-1 p.m.
In this virtual Spanish webinar, coordinated by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, Maria A Rossetti, PhD will provide advice on several questions about memory such as: "What is memory?" and "Is it normal to lose memory?" This presentation will also explain dementia and Alzheimer's disease, and how to talk to your loved ones about memory. Join us to learn how to best prepare to be a family caregiver for your loved ones living with dementia. Register online at bit.ly/CharlasEducativas or call 571-407-6961.
Family Caregiving and Managing Chronic Diseases
Wednesday, November 20, Noon-1 p.m.
In this virtual presentation, hosted by the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging, Bobbie Beharrie, RN-BC, CDP, CADDCT, Director of Personal Care Services, The Medical Team INC, will educate family caregivers of older adults and people with disabilities on how to best manage chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and hypertension. Objectives for the webinar are to explore advice on how family caregivers can overcome challenges with the management of the diseases, understand what type of supports should be in place to help the caregiver and the care receiver to achieve a higher quality of life, and gain a greater understanding of chronic diseases and treatment options. Individuals coping with chronic diseases can take steps to improve their overall health, feel better, and live life to the fullest. Register online at bit.ly/CAREWEB1 or call 571-407-6961.
This article is part of the Golden Gazette monthly newsletter which covers a variety of topics and community news concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. Are you new to the Golden Gazette? Don’t miss out on future newsletters! Subscribe to get the electronic or free printed version mailed to you. Have a suggestion for a topic? Share it in an email or call 703-324-GOLD (4653).