The Kenai Peninsula Family Caregiver Support Program will hold the following peer support meetings in June. This month’s topic is “When is it time for a long term care facility?” Understandably, many family members want to care for their loved one at home for as long as possible. However, what does “for as long as possible” really mean? What factors indicate the time may be right to consider placing someone into an assisted living or nursing home? Please join to share your experiences as a caregiver or to support someone who is a caregiver.
June 4, Caregiver support meeting at Sterling Senior Center, 1 p.m.
June 11, Caregiver support meeting at Soldotna Senior Center, 1 p.m.
June 18, Caregiver support meeting at Kenai Senior Center, 1 p.m.
June 25, Open house at Kenai Peninsula Family Caregiver Support Program in Blazy Mall, Soldotna, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Check out the lending library, durable medical equipment loan closet and more while enjoying a cup of coffee and friendly conversation. Be sure to attend the workshop presentation at 1 p.m.
Support meetings allow you to share your experiences as a caregiver, or support someone who is a caregiver. If you are helping a family member of friend by being a caregiver, learn what kind of help is available. There is no charge for these services and everyone is invited to attend.
For more information, call Sharon or Judy at (907) 262-1280.
The Homer Family Caregiver meetings take place on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month (June 13 and 27) at Homer Senior Center, 2 to 3:30 p.m. Hosted by Pam Hooker. Call for more information, 235-4555.
Palmer caregiver support group meets at Palmer Senior Center (aka Mat-Su Senior Services) the first Friday of each month (June 7), 10 to 11:30 a.m. Contact Janice Downing, Alzheimer’s Resource of Alaska, 746-3413.
Southeast
The Senior and Caregiver Resource Center at Southeast Senior Services in Juneau offers a call-in support group for residents of Southeast Alaska. Call for more information, 463-6177 or 463-6181.
The Ketchikan Family Caregiver Support Group meets the second Friday of each month (June 14), upstairs at the Ketchikan-Saxman Senior Center, 2 to 3 p.m.
The Sitka Family Caregiver Support Group meets the fourth Friday of each month (June 28). 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
Ketchikan, 225-8080
Kodiak, 486-6181
Nome, 443-4507
Palmer/Wasilla, 746-3413
Family caregiver tip of the month
Summer is here and now is the time to plan some activities for the person you are caring for. While you are planning, be sure to keep hydration in mind and bring plenty of water. Use sunscreen when appropriate, avoid strenuous activity and wear loose protective clothing.
Here are some suggestions to plan outings and activities: Go for a drive to a park or local lake and on your way pick up an ice cream cone; go to a movie, preferably one they can reminisce with; go shopping at the local mall; browse through a local bookstore; get an iced coffee treat; check with your local senior center for activities they may be having that you might be able to participate in.
Remember that preparation is the key to successful planning and advance planning will give you the key to having some “fun in the sun”.
- Judy Warren, Kenai Peninsula National Family Caregiver Support program
