Caregiving for Aging Parents & Relatives Series builds greater understanding

SOUTHINGTON – Caring for an older loved one can be overwhelming and stressful. A free six-week series will focus on developing caregiving skills and coping with the stress of day-to-day life when caring for aging relatives. This series will be held Thursdays, Oct. 5 to Nov. 9, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at The Orchards at Southington, 34 Hobart St. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions.

LeaAnn Blanchard, director of social services, The Orchards at Southington, will lead the series. Session topics are: Oct. 5 – Overview of the Aging Process; Oct. 12 – When is it Time for Help?; Oct. 19 - Role Reversal: Why do I Feel Like the Parent?; Oct. 26 - "The Crisis"; Nov. 2 - Translating Anger and Guilt; and Nov. 9 - Resources and Options for Care. The Orchards at Southington, an independent and assisted living community, is the program sponsor.

Light snacks and refreshments will be served. A free caregiver journal will be provided to all participants.

Registration is required. To reserve a space, call Jessica Baillargeon, retirement counselor, The Orchards at Southington, 860.628.5656.

The Orchards at Southington offers independent and assisted living, and is a not for profit member of Hartford HealthCare Senior Services. For more information about The Orchards at Southington, visit southingtonorchards.org.