The Kenai Peninsula Family Caregiver Support Program will hold the following peer support meetings and trainings in June. This month’s theme is “Honoring Cancer Survivors Through Prevention.” Please join and share your experience as a caregiver or to support someone who is a caregiver.
June 3, “Ways to Reduce Your Risk for Cancer,” Sterling Senior Center, 1 p.m.
June 10, “Ways to Reduce Your Risk for Cancer,” Soldotna Senior Center, 1 p.m.
June 17, “Cancer Symptoms You’re Most Likely to Ignore,” Kenai Senior Center, 1 p.m.
June 24, “Cancer Symptoms You’re Most Likely to Ignore,” Soldotna Senior Center, 1 p.m.
June 26, “Communicating Through Family Dynamics,” Homer Senior Center, 2 p.m.
There is no charge for these services and everyone is invited to attend. Training sessions provide 2 hours of Continuing Education Units for people with
CNAs. For more information, call (907) 262-1280.
Southeast
The Juneau Family Caregiver Support Group meets the second Wednesday of each month (June 11) in the conference room of KTOO’s studio, 360 Egan Drive, noon to 1:30 p.m.
The Ketchikan Family Caregiver Support Group meets the second Friday of each month (June 13), upstairs at the Ketchikan Senior Center at noon.
The Sitka Family Caregiver Support Group meets the third Wednesday of each month (June 18). For more information, call Brave Heart Volunteers, 747-4600.
Other locations
For information on caregiver support group meetings around the state:
Anchorage, 561-3313
Fairbanks, 452-2277
Homer, 235-2295
Juneau, 463-6164 or 463-6198
Ketchikan, 225-8080
Kodiak, 486-6181
Nome, 443-4507
Palmer/Wasilla, 746-3413
Sitka, 747-4600
Family caregiver tip of the month
The long Alaska days of summer can mean less sleep and more activity than usual. Here are a couple of things you can do to help you and your loved one get a good night’s rest and enjoy the summer days.
1. No stimulating beverages or activity late in the day, including coffee and the after dinner drink.
2. Keep the bedroom quiet and dark. No TV, cell phones, etc. in the bedroom.
3. Do a medication review to be sure there are no medications that interfere with sleep. Include any over the counter drugs and supplements.
4. Keep a consistent routine to your day. Your job is caregiving, treat it like a job.
5. As with any job, you need a break. Try to get a few hours of total freedom during the day and accept help when offered.
As always attend a support group meeting in your area whenever possible.
– Judy Warren, Kenai Peninsula Family Caregiver Support Program
