More than 65 million people, about 29 percent of the U.S. population, provide care for chronically ill, disabled or aged family members or friends during any given year and spend an average of 20 hours per week providing care for their loved one, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving.
Caregiving can take its toll on caregivers emotionally, physically, financially and spiritually. Seventy two percent of caregivers report not going to the doctor as often as they should (Evercare), up to 70 percent experience clinically significant symptoms of depression (Assessment of Family Caregivers) and those experiencing extreme stress can take as much as 10 years off a caregiver’s life (National Academy of Sciences).
The Perry Lutheran Home’s next topic in the free AgingWell seminar series, “Caring for the Caregiver,” shows caregivers there is hope. There are things caregivers can do to provide self-care that will reduce their level of stress, improve their confidence, better communicate their questions and feelings, increase their ability to make tough decisions, balance their lives and learn about helpful resources.
This seminar is designed for anyone who is currently a caregiver or may become a caregiver in the near future, but anyone is welcome to attend.
Featured speaker will be Toni Larson, clinical social worker with Lutheran Family Service. Larson is a certified master trainer with the national Powerful Tools for Caregivers organization. Larson has a wealth of experience working with caregivers throughout Iowa and equipping them with the skills needed to better navigate the journey of caregiving.
This free and informative seminar will take place Tuesday, May 22 from 7-8 p.m. at the Christ Lutheran Church at 22952 141st Drive near Bouton. To reserve your spot, contact Toni Larson today at tlarson@lfsiowa.org or 515-465-5342.
For a list of upcoming Aging Well topics and dates, visit the Perry Lutheran Home website.
Mollie Clark is the director of marketing at the Perry Lutheran Home.
