Last night I attended a local senior center’s series on caregiving (Andover, MA). The presenting team from Home Health Foundation did a nice job covering the topic of self-care. I attach the info below (direct from the center’s website) for those North of Boston interested in attending future talks.
As my attendance at most caregiving- and advocacy-related groups is limited right now due to my family estate work and my own self-care, I experienced a heightened sensitivity to who was present in the room last night, and who wasn’t there. After some reflection on the way home, I realized some new and renewed self-awarenesses about myself and my work. I am a champion for a largely invisible group of family caregivers. These caregivers who have felt the fire as I have largely do not attend programs like this one for several reasons, not the least one being related to assumptions about age and age-appropriate programs. For example, there are many caregivers who belong to a younger-than-boomer group who generally wouldn’t consider attending a program at a senior center, even though they care for a senior. It will be good to keep ever-increasing open-minds and open-doors as we, as a global/local community, carry-on with the work of educating and supporting a diverse group of caregivers caring for seniors and others affected by long-term illness and disability. Thanks to the Andover Senior Center for the open invitation.
Moving forward with a listening heart,
vision, inquiry, and action,
Mary
P.S. My puppy, Miss Honey, had knee surgery two-days ago. She came home yesterday and is doing well. We are in full nursing-mode.
COPING WITH CAREGIVING
Thursdays, April 3 – 24; 7 pm; Free but pre-registration is required. To register, call 978-623-8321; address: 30 Whittier Court, Andover, MA.
Join the experts as they offer vital information about the challenges & rewards for caring for your loved ones as their needs increase.
April 3: A daughter’s tips for the Caregiver: Personal and professional insight on the caregiver’s journey. Kelley MacDonald, MSN, Home Health Foundation.
April 10: Long-time Andover physician, Suetta Tenney, whose practice cares for many Andover seniors and their families, will explore the pitfalls and rewards of caring for ones aging relatives and friends.
April 17: “Changes in Memory: Normal Signs of Aging vs. Alzheimer’s” Heather Carroll, Coordinator, Programs and Advocacy, Alzheimer’s Association.
April 24: Senior staff from The Center at Punchard will present an overview of support services provided through The Center, as well as other community-based supports to assist seniors in maintaining their independence and safety.