Caregiver College Provides Resources to Those Caring for Family Members

Over one million Virginians are caring for older parents or loved ones, helping them live independently at home. AARP wants to help, which is why we have teamed up with Mount Vernon at Home and the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter to present a Caregiver College.

Over the course of six weeks we’ll discuss legal and financial planning, healthy living, communications, self-care, and much more.

Classes will be held at the Hollin Hall Senior Center, located on 1500 Shenandoah Road, Alexandria, VA 22308, on Wednesdays from 10 – 11:30 a.m. Feel free to come to all classes or a few classes.

Classes are free and open to all. Light refreshments will be served and registration in kindly requested. To register, call 1-877-926-8300 or click on the class link below.

Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body
Wednesday, April 18^th
At any age, there are lifestyle habits we can adopt to help maintain or even potentially improve our health. These habits may also help to keep our brains healthy as we age and possibly delay the onset of cognitive decline.

This workshop covers four areas of lifestyle habits that are associated with healthy aging:
• Cognitive activity
• Physical health and exercise
• Diet and nutrition
• Social engagement

In each area, we will discuss what we know, drawing on current research, as well as what we can do — steps to take now to improve or maintain overall health in each area.

Caregiving 101: Creating a Plan
Wednesday, April 25^th
Learn the five steps every caregiver should take: How to Start the Conversation; Forming a Team; Making a Family Plan; Finding Support; and the Importance of Caring for Yourself. All participants will receive a free copy of AARP’s Prepare to Care Planning Guide.

Effective Communication Strategies
Wednesday, May 2^nd
Explore how communication takes place when someone has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Learn to decode the verbal and behavioral messages delivered by someone with dementia and identify strategies to help connect and communicate at each state of the disease.

Know the 10 Signs: Your Memory Matters
Wednesday, May 9^th
If you or someone you know is experiencing memory loss or behavioral changes, it’s time to learn the facts. This class provides a greater understanding of the difference between age-related memory loss and dementia and what to do it you see the signs.

Your Legal Responsibilities as a Caregiver
Wednesday, May 16^th  
Among your many responsibilities as a caregiver are also legal questions you have to face. What do you have to consider when making decisions for someone else? At what points are being “just a caregiver” not enough to make decisions? How do you go about getting the authority you need? This workshop will cover making decisions as an agent with health or financial powers of attorney, guardian, representative payee and more.

Manage the Economic Stressors of Caregiving
Wednesday, May 23^rd
Taking on the role of caregiver can stress your personal finances but there are steps you can take to manage the risk. This workshop offers suggestions on government programs, resources, and strategies that may help ease any financial burden.