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Free Course for Family Caregivers Begins Next Month
January 9, 2012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Volunteer Richmond Information Services (VRIS), Seniors Community Support Services is pleased to announce that registration has begun for the next Caregivers Education and Support series.
A caregiver is anyone who provides unpaid care and support for an adult (55 plus) living in Richmond. This program, funded by the United Way of the Lower Mainland, provides caregivers with knowledge of the health care system, enabling them to support the care receiver in the best possible way. In addition, caregivers learn the steps they can take to remain healthy themselves.
“The goal of our program is to have happier, healthier caregivers, capable of providing the best care to the care receiver at no personal cost to their well being,” says Carol Dickson, Manager, Seniors Community Support Services at VRIS. “Participants of the first education series reported that they gained perspective, confidence, a sense of purpose and the strength to say ‘no’ as a result of the series.”
It is estimated that there are as many as five million family caregivers throughout Canada. According to Dickson, they don’t always know where to turn when they need resources or support. “Sometimes, caregivers might feel overwhelmed, and we want to let them know that they’re not alone. This education series is one way of reaching out to them, of showing them that community support is available.”
The first of five once-a-week Caregiver Education and Support sessions begins Monday, February 6 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Courtyard Gardens. Topics include stress management, navigating the health care system, communication, problem solving and more.
This program is offered free of charge, but there are limited spots available. Caregivers are advised to register early by contacting 604-279-7020 or info@volunteerrichmond.ca.
Volunteer Richmond Information Services is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of Richmond residents by bringing people and services together through community information and volunteerism. For more information call 604-279-7020 or visit our website at www.volunteerrichmond.ca.
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For more information contact:
Muffet Chambers
Director, Seniors Programs and Services
Volunteer Richmond Information Services
604-279-7020 / mchambers@volunteerrichmond.ca
Seniors Community Support Services
