The path of providing care to a loved one can bring unprecedented personal growth and be one of the most rewarding journeys we will take in this life. At the same time, looking at both the big picture as well as the day-today, it is likely to be incredibly demanding. Many caregivers find themselves stretched to the point where they feel resentment, and then feel guilty about those feelings. The reality is that feeling resentment is a natural result of being over-taxed, and is a given for most caregivers. Along with difficult feelings, caregivers often navigate such challenges as rocky family dynamics, making lots of (sometimes very hard) decisions, and needing to communicate with everyone involved all while dealing with trying circumstances.
Thankfully, Boulder County Area Agency on Aging offers a course that helps family caregivers recognize and acknowledge the amazing work they are doing while providing them with tools to help cope with the challenges of caregiving. Powerful Tools for Caregivers has been proven to help family caregivers reduce their stress, enhance their self-care, and feel better about their caregiving. Topics covered include taking care of you, identifying and reducing personal stress, communicating needs, feelings and concerns, communicating in challenging situations, and mastering caregiving decisions. The next session of Powerful Tools for Caregivers takes place on Tuesdays, Feb. 13 –March 20, 5:30 -8 p.m., in Boulder. It is 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. Pre-registration is required, at 303-678-6116 or InfoCaregiver@bouldercounty.org. Financial assistance for respite care (substitute elder care during class) is available.
Caregivers who take this class learn that they are not alone and that they can thrive rather than just survive!
~ 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 .