By Chloe Elmer
Being a primary or even a part-time caregiver can be challenging and overwhelming at times, not only for the actual care of a patient, but for the well-being of the caregiver as well. Caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia may experience feelings of sadness, anger, confusion, hopelessness, or frustration.
The Penn Memory Center holds a seven-week Psycho-educational Caregiver Class to help caregivers develop skills to better help their loved one – and themselves – cope with the many changes of living with dementia.
There are two separate sessions offered through PMC, and new dates have just been announced for the fall.
The session for spouses of patients living with dementia will run October 2 through November 13, on Mondays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The session for adult children or other relatives will run October 3 through November 14, on Tuesdays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Topics in the seven-week curriculum include: understanding and managing emotions and behavior, learning effective communications practices, and understanding the road ahead.
The class is open to anyone caring for someone with dementia of any stage, though much of the curriculum is geared toward individuals caring for someone who needs support with tasks such as managing money, medicines, cooking, or driving, and who may be showing changes in their personality and behavior.
Classes will take place at 241 Ralston Center, 3615 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa. Thanks to generous support from the Julius H. Caplan Family Caring Difference Fund, the Caregiver Class is now free for all participants.
To learn more about the programs or sign up for either session, please contact Alison Lynn, LSW, via email at alison.lynn@uphs.upenn.edu or by phone 215-360-0257.
For more information, visit our website.