Solutions for Family Caregivers Expo

The Area Agency on Aging 1-B (AAA 1-B) is hosting its 13^th Annual Solutions for Family Caregivers Expo, offering relevant information and resources to people who care for elderly or disabled family members or friends.

This year’s Expo includes 12 educational seminars. More than 85 exhibitors will be on site displaying and demonstrating products and services for caregivers.  The AAA 1-B’s Resource Specialists and trained Medicare and Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) volunteers will be available all day at the “Ask The Resource Specialist” booth answering questions on Medicare, Medicaid, transportation options, in home services, and providing access to local resources.

 “Most families don’t plan ahead and are not prepared for the role of caring for an aging parent, spouse or relative,” said Tina Abbate Marzolf, chief executive officer, AAA 1-B.  “Being a caregiver can impact a person’s job, financial stability, family life, and their mental and physical health and wellbeing.  The Solutions for Family Caregivers Expo was created to connect caregivers to information and resources to improve their quality of life, as well as the life of the person they care for.”

 Respite Care Provided On-Site

Caregivers who cannot leave the person they care for at home alone to attend the Caregiver Expo are encouraged to register their loved one  in “Respite Care at the Expo,” a free service provided onsite at the Sterling Inn during the event.  Caregivers can leave their loved one in the caring hands of qualified professionals, where they will enjoy refreshments and participate in engaging activities such as singing, games, crafts, and social interaction.  Respite Care is sponsored by Hospice of Michigan and Sunrise Senior Living.

Due to limited space, reservations for “Respite Care at the Expo” must be made by October 5, 2012.  Respite care is strictly for adults.  For more information or to make a reservation, caregivers can visit www.aaa1b.com or contact the AAA 1-B at 1-800-852-7795.

 The Caregiver Expo  is sponsored by HAP Medicare Solutions, Henry Ford Health System, AAA – The Auto Club Group, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Witzke Berry, Carter & Wander, PLLC., American House, Guardian Medical Monitoring, Meridian Advantage Plan, NexCare Health Systems, Presbyterian Villages of Michigan, Waltonwood, and Visiting Physicians Association.  Media sponsors are Alternatives for Seniors and Macomb Daily.

Morning refreshments will be provided courtesy of Jim Schuster, Certified Elder Law Attorney; SMART; and Trinity Senior Living Communities.  Snacks will be available in the afternoon on a cash and carry basis. Caregiver will also have the chance to win door prizes and giveaways.  Parking and admission are free.

For more information on the Area Agency on Aging 1-B or the free 2012 Solutions for Family Caregivers Expo, visit www.michigancaregiverexpo.com or call 1-800-852-7795.