November is National Family Caregivers Month and The Gateway Family YMCA is reminding caregivers that they need to take care of themselves as well as those they love. As a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening community, the Y is poised to provide unique opportunities and programming to support caregivers year-round.
“Caregivers spend so much time and energy taking care of their loved one’s that it is so easy to put their own needs last. However, in order to help those they love, the caregiver needs to be healthy enough to manage the day to day tasks that are associated with taking care of others,” stated Melynda A. Disla, EVP/COO, The Gateway Family YMCA. “Family caregiving is not an easy task, and we are here to be a resource, a partner and a place to recharge.”
Throughout the year, The Gateway Family YMCA offers programs and services to help family caregivers including W.I.S.E. (Wellness, Independence and Socialization for our Elders) Community Services programs, monthly Bereavement Support Group and Alzheimer NJ Caregiver Support Group, specialized activities and programs, as well as wellness programs and access for all.
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“We have always felt that supporting the entire family is most important in our WISE Community Services programs,” stated Rodger D. Koerber, VP of Operations, The Gateway Family YMCA. “It is so easy to forget to take a moment to work on your own support system and health and well-being. That’s where the Y steps in and provides that additional layer of support.”
Though the Fit Assist WISE Community Services program, individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, mild cognitive impairment or those who need a little extra assistance, work with a dedicated YMCA Wellness Coach to set and achieve individualized health and wellness goals. This program allows the caregiver to choose whether to take the time to work out on their own, in the same facility or to join in the program together with their loved one.
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WISEconnect is a unique program, providing a hybrid experience to aid in respite for caregivers. WISEconnect combines health and wellness opportunities with supportive activities to keep members over 50 with cognitive impairments or other functional challenges cognitively stimulated, physically active, and socially engaged. Weekly hybrid (in-person and virtual) activities range from games, puzzles, discussion, and arts (journaling, storytelling, painting, poetry, music, movement) to group exercise (cardio, yoga, resistance, balance, & flexibility). Participants also receive Engage WISEly, a daily email newsletter containing brain games, exercise, music, memories, culture, travel and arts.
The WISE Cardio Jam program, with both an in-person or virtual option, is taught by dedicated staff with over 37 years of instructing individuals with Alzheimer’s or Dementia. This program is offered with modifications for standing or seated group exercise, for individuals of all levels fitness, providing an experience that meets the needs of all.
“At The Gateway Family YMCA, our goal is to support the entire family. We know our family caregivers need time to recharge and are here as a dedicated partner,” stated Colleen A. Clayton, Chief Membership and Development Officer. “To be our best selves, we need to take care of our whole selves. We are here to help everyone find balance in spirt, mind and body.”
President Clinton signed the first National Family Caregiver Month Presidential Proclamation in November 1997, recognizing and honoring family caregivers each November. Caregiver Action Network is the organizational host of Family Caregivers Month annually and spearheads celebration of National Family Caregiver Month nationally since 1994. This year’s theme is #CaregivingHappens
The Gateway Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, health and community service organization of caring staff and volunteers dedicated to strengthening the foundations of community and stands For Youth Development, For Healthy Living and For Social Responsibility. The Y impacts the community by providing quality services to people of all ages, races, faiths or incomes. The Y is a powerful association of men, women and children of all ages and from all walks of life joined together by a shared passion: to strengthen the foundations of community.
To learn more about The Gateway Family YMCA, visit www.tgfymca.org or contact the WISE Center YMCA Branch at 908-349-9622.
