Powerful Tools for Caregivers to begin Feb. 8 in Fairfield

Thirty-nine percent of all adult Americans are caring for an adult with a chronic health condition. Caregiving can be a stressful responsibility leading to poor health, mental distress, and less life satisfaction for the caregiver. It can be challenging for caregivers to find the support that they need, says Hailey Burgher, a human sciences specialist with Iowa State University (ISU) Extension and Outreach.

ISU Extension and Outreach offers educational resources for family caregivers. Powerful Tools for Caregiversis a program for caregivers who provide care for a spouse, parent, or friend with a chronic condition such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. The program provides information, support strategies, communication techniques, stress reduction ideas, and resources to assist family caregivers with their concerns related to caregiving.

A Powerful Tools for Caregivers of Adults with Chronic Conditions series is scheduled for six Wednesdays, February 8-March 15, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The series will provide you with the tools you need to take care of yourself.

This program is free, and a free lunch will be provided at each session. All sessions will take place at the Jefferson County Extension Office. Registration can be found online at: http://go.iastate.edu/SGSX4H

“Caregivers who thrive, rather than just survive, understand that by taking care of themselves, they are better able to provide meaningful care,” said Burgher, who specializes in family wellbeing issues.

To learn more, visit www.extension.iastate.edu/humansciences/ptc. Contact human sciences specialist Burgher at hburgher@iastate.edu or 641-895-9037 for more information. Or contact, Courtney Burkhalter, Jefferson County Program Coordinator, at 641-472-4166 or cburk@iastate.edu.