Published: August 18, 2008 09:02 am      

Spa offers support for caregivers

By KANDACE MCCOY

kandace.mccoy@register-news.com

MT. VERNON — Caring for a loved one can not only be a physical challenge for some, but for others stressful as well. And as family members strive to provide quality care for their loved ones, they may find themselves overwhelmed, stressed and frustrated.

Educating family caregivers and helping them maintain their own health as they care for others is the focus behind the sixth annual Spa for the Caregiver’s Spirit on Sept. 11, from 2:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Pleasant HIll Baptist Church, 19479 North Illinois 37, according to caregiver advisor Darcy Markwell.

Markwell states that more than 44 million Americans, age 18 and older, provide unpaid assistance to aging or disabled adults that live in their own homes. Emotional, mental and physical health problems may arise from complex caregiving situations, she reports, and the stress from caring for relatives. As a result, caregivers often find themselves either struggling to find information or becoming overwhelmed by the information overload.

“Family caregivers frequently express frustration at the amount of time they spend trying to get answers to questions regarding community services, disease processes and medical benefits. About one in 10 caregivers report that caregiving has caused their own physical health to get worse,” information states.

During the spa attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the following topics:

Neutralizing the blues;

Combative behavior in the elderly;

Veterans Administration Aid & Attendance benefits;

Easy nutrition guides for seniors;

Caring for a patient with a life-limiting illness;

Similarities and differences between a homemaker and respite worker;

Power of attorney versus guardianship; and

Benefits of physical activity with a take home exercise routine.

Chair massages, nail care and facials will be available to participants, along with informational exhibits. The evening will end with door prizes, a free meal and entertainment by DeeAnn Schnautz.

To register for the Spa for the Caregiver’s Spirit, or for more information, you may contact Markwell at (888) 560-8805, Ext. 1062.