Area unpaid caregivers can access critical information and education on how to care for an aging loved one through a series of free educational videos produced by United Way of Northern New Jersey Caregivers Coalition.
The Coalition’s Informed Caregiver video series consists of four separate videos, available online and on DVD, covering a range of topics, from Caregiving 101 to strategies for keeping loved ones at home.
Caregivers are the family members and friends who help their loved ones with a range of tasks from paying bills or driving to doctors, to personal care such as bathing and dressing, to medical care such as administering medication.
The series, which has been made possible with the help of a grant from the Essex County Division of Senior Services, was recently renewed by the County for the production of four additional videos in 2014.
The first four videos are currently available online by visiting: www.UnitedWayNNJ.org/CaregivingVideos. In addition, caregivers can request a free copy of the DVDs. The videos cover the following topics:
· Caregiving 101: dealing with caregiving stress, organizing important information and managing medications and health histories
· Demand vs. needs: effective strategies and practical advice for managing the challenges of caring for an aging loved one
· Legal and financial planning: preparing key planning documents, designing wills and trusts, managing assets like a home, and financing long term care
· Keeping a loved one at home: assessing needs, choosing a home care agency, paying for services, and creating a stimulating environment
“United Way is committed to showing unpaid caregivers that they are not alone in their caregiving journey,” said Deborah Day, United Way Caregivers Coalition coordinator in North Essex. “We thank Essex County for making it possible to continue providing caregivers critical information and resources in a format that can be viewed at a caregiver’s convenience.”
The United Way Caregivers Coalition was established in 2011 in North Essex. To date, this Coalition has 500 members. Each month, the coalition of caregivers and representatives of service providers, government agencies, hospitals and faith-based congregations meet to share resources, hear educational presentations and work on projects that improve the quality of life for caregivers.
In addition to the monthly meetings, educational workshops are provided throughout the year, as well as an annual conference and a Pathways for Caregivers guide, a free publication that provides information, support and resources for caregivers.
To request a DVD in the Informed Caregiver series, or for more information about United Way Caregivers Coalition in North Essex, email Deborah.Day@UnitedWayNNJ.org or call 973.746.4040, x209.
