DHSS Press Release

WORKSHOP TO TEACH HOW TO CARE FOR OLDER LOVED ONE AT HOME

CARE Delaware program addresses the challenges and stress of caregiving

DOVER - Are you struggling with the challenges of caring for a friend or relative, age 60 or older, in the home? Are you striving to offer the best possible care, but not sure where to turn for hands-on skills and resources?

The Delaware Ecumenical Council on Children and Families, a faith-based health advocacy, education and services organization, is coordinating this free, two-part workshop that can help you learn practical skills and handle the physical and emotional stress of caregiving. The workshop is funded by CARE Delaware, a program of Delaware's Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities (DSAAPD).

"Giving Care. Taking Care. A workshop on how to care for an older loved one at home" will be held on Saturdays, July 19 and July 26, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Kent General Hospital-Bayhealth Medical Center. The workshops will provide practical training, support and skills that can make a difference in how you care for your older loved one and yourself. Topics include:

• Home safety
• Personal care
• Body mechanics
• Transferring a person out of bed
• Nutrition
• What to ask the doctor
• Communicating
• Resources in Delaware
• Breaking out of isolation

"These workshops also offer a wonderful opportunity for caregivers to meet and talk with others who are facing the same issues. It can be tremendously helpful to learn from one another's experiences and develop a network of support among other caregivers," said Leah Jones, CARE Delaware program administrator.

The workshops will be led by Edith Cross, R.N., a program coordinator for the Delaware Ecumenical Council on Children and Families. Cross manages the organization's Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers program in the Lewes-Rehoboth area and serves her church as a parish nurse.

To register for one or both of these free sessions, call Executive Director Robert Hall or Senior Program Coordinator Cynthia Whisker at the Council at (302) 225-1040. Lunch will be provided.

For more information about CARE Delaware's services, call the Delaware Helpline at (800) 464-HELP, or visit the DSAAPD website at www.dsaapd.com.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.