If you are finding yourself currently in or near a caregiving phase of life and have concerns about how to cope with all the aspects involved, you are in good company. One way that caregivers of older adults in Boulder County can gather community, support, and knowledge, is through Caregiver Training Classes offered by Boulder County Area Agency on Aging. Two courses are held routinely throughout the county. Powerful Tools for Caregivers, will take place next, on Thursdays Feb. 7 – March 14, 1:30 – 4 p.m., and is being held midway between Boulder and Longmont. Topics covered include taking care of you, identifying and reducing personal stress, communicating in challenging situations, and mastering caregiving decisions.
Juliette Kershner
The National Caregiver Training Program (NCTP) is more of a hands-on class taught by a registered nurse who has an abundance of experience in caring for older adults. Skills covered include providing personal care, taking vital signs, safe use of a wheelchair, caring for someone who is bed bound, and managing medications. The next session runs from Feb. 21 – Mar. 28, and is also held midway between Boulder and Longmont.
Response to these classes have been overwhelmingly positive. When asked what she liked best about the class, a Powerful tools participant said, “I liked the interpersonal sharing and camaraderie that helped me feel part of something larger than my own experience. Caregiving can be so isolating.” A participant of NCTP reflected that, “I learned so much, I am much more prepared.” Both classes are open to Boulder county residents who provide local or long-distance care for a relative, partner, or friend who is 60 or over, or of any age if the person has dementia. There is no fee, though donations are appreciated. Registration is required, at 303-678-6116 or InfoCaregiver@bouldercounty.org. Financial assistance for respite care (substitute elder care during class periods) is available.
~ Juliette Jonjak Kershner is Caregiver Initiative Coordinator with Boulder County Area Agency on Aging, a Division of Community Services. For more information on BCAAA caregiver services, call 303- 678-6116 or email InfoCaregiver@ bouldercounty.org .