by Emily Cooper
You’ve just become a caregiver for an older loved one who is frail, ill, or disabled. Understandably, you may feel overwhelmed by your new responsibilities and confused about where to turn. Fortunately, there is a wealth of educational resources that can help you feel more confident in your caregiver role.
For an overview of caregiving and tips on specific topics, read a book such as And Thou Shalt Honor or The Comfort of Home, or go to websites like www.caregiveraction.org (Caregiver Action Network), www.alz.org (Alzheimer’s Association), or www.aarp.org (AARP).
To learn about local resources, turn to Boulder County Aging and Disability Resources for Colorado (ADRC), staffed by Boulder County Area Agency on Aging (BCAAA). Call the ADRC Help Line, at 303-441-1617, or go to www.BoulderCountyHelp.org (select Seniors & People with Disabilities, then Services) for the comprehensive directory of local services. You may also contact the Resource Specialist in your community, or give me a call.
BCAAA offers two free training courses for family caregivers, one on self-care and the other on practical skills. Each is held four times a year; both start again this month.
www.BoulderCountyHelp.org has e-learning courses (for a small fee) on a wide range of caregiving topics, and the Alzheimer’s Association holds various classes on dementia care.
Longterm care facilities, senior centers, and other agencies also offer educational presentations from time to time.
In addition, you can learn by subscribing to “Care Connections,” BCAAA’s free newsletter for caregivers, or by attending a caregiver support group. Time is short when you’re a caregiver, but investing a bit of it in your own education will pay off hugely in the long run.
Emily Cooper, Information & Assistance Specialist for Caregiver Programs, Boulder County Area Agency on Aging. 303-678-6116; InfoCareGiver@bouldercounty.org.