Free ElderLink Caregiver Telephone Support Call for Family Caregivers of Older Adults Online Registration

    FREE ELDERLINK CAREGIVER TELEPHONE SUPPORT CALL    

    FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF OLDER ADULTS

ONLINE REGISTRATION FORM    

Join us for this call which will focus on the other side of caregiving that often gets missed: the joy. "When we provide help to someone we care about, we feel more positive emotions, like compassion, satisfaction and a vicarious happiness at being able to help," says psychologist Michael J. Poulin. Studies show that helping others seems to buffer the physical effects of stress, according to a five-year study published in the "American Journal of Public Health." Studies also show that caregivers may live longer. In another study, published in the journal "Stroke," caregivers reported that helping a relative after his or her stroke gave them a greater appreciation for life and more confidence, and strengthened their relationships with others.

Caregivers frequently report experiencing high levels of stress. It can be overwhelming taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer's or other dementias, and too much stress can be harmful to you, your care receiver and your family. We will discuss the symptoms of caregiver stress and more importantly, tips to manage that stress.

Many of us face questions about advanced medical treatment and end of life decisions for our loved ones but may not be capable of making those decisions in an emergency or at the end of life. If possible, our loved ones should be included in the conversation. We will learn during this call the types of decisions that need to be made and questions you, and your loved one, if possible, can think about now so you're prepared later. Whether your loved one can or cannot be included in this discussion, it will help you think about discussions that need to be had and the decisions that need to be made.

Alzheimer’s and other dementias often are accompanied by challenging behaviors that we’re not always prepared to handle. Sometimes, dementia seems to bring out the individual's basic personality all the more. Other times, personalities seem to be completely different as dementia progresses. Knowing how to respond to challenging behaviors can be a true challenge. When loved ones become angry or aggressive, it's not unusual to feel hurt or frustrated. Reminding yourself that the behavior you're seeing is a result of the disease and not the person's choice can help you cope with these feelings. Most of us have experienced these challenging behaviors. How have you dealt with them that might help other group members? Join us for this important discussion.

To quote AARP, "For some family caregivers, the holidays can be a joyful time when spirits are lighter. It feels good to care for loved ones and enjoy time together, celebrating with family traditions. But for many the holidays also bring added stress — an already busy caregiver finds there’s even more to do during the holidays. Something’s gotta give!" During our call, we will discuss some ideas and tips to help you make it through the holiday season with more joy and less stress.

This topic brings to light the many good things caregivers do and how we, as informal (family, non-paid) and formal (professional) caregivers, are in this journey together with our collaborative and cooperative relationships. It is also a celebration of family caregivers and care recipients. Join us to share your observations about what it means to you to be a caregiver — the downs and the ups, the lows and the highs, the challenges and the victories.

Join us for an open forum on all caregiving issues, questions you might have, and feedback and suggestions for the support call going forward into the new year.