Coping Strategies for Family Caregivers of People with Alzheimer's & Other Dementia

Nothing prepares you for watching your loved-one lose their memories, change behavior and struggle to perform simple tasks. The impact of dementia can cause stress, confusion, anger and sadness for both the individual and the caregiver. And as the disease progresses, the needs of the loved-one increase while their cognitive skills decline, which makes caregiving responsibilities even more challenging.

To help address the stress of these challenges, a Stress-Busting Program for Family Caregivers™ of people with Alzheimer's and other forms will be held at the Somerset County Senior Wellness Center
at Bridgewater, located at 876 East Main St. It is a nine-week program that consists of weekly, 90-minute sessions with a small group of caregivers. The program starts Thursday, Sept. 15, at 1 p.m.

To participate in this free program, residents must pre-register by Tuesday, Sept. 13. Call (908) 704-6346
or email troulis@co.somerset.nj.us to reserve a spot.

Groups are limited to eight participants. Caregivers will learn stress management techniques and coping strategies and receive a handbook of class materials, relaxation strategies and a meditation CD.

The Stress-Busting Program was developed through research conducted by Dr. Sharon Lewis at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and meets the Administration on Aging's highest criteria for evidence-based programs. Caregivers who have participated reported significantly lower stress,
depression and anxiety. They have also indicated improvements in their self-esteem, quality of life and their ability to relax and manage stress.

The Somerset County Senior Wellness Center at Bridgewater is operated by the Somerset County
Office on Aging and Disability Services. The multipurpose facility offers a variety of educational, recreational and entertaining activities for active older adults, including wellness programs and health screenings. The
center is accessible to individuals with disabilities.

Somerset County senior centers offer a wide range of experiences designed for lifelong enrichment in a social and uplifting atmosphere, intended to positively impact overall health. Many of these programs are funded, in part, through the Older Americans Act.

For more information, contact the Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services at (908) 704-6346 or email troulis@co.somerset.nj.us.