BackSupport for Caregivers and Family
Article submitted by The Senior Hub.
For more information, they can be reached at 303-426-4408 or by e-mail: info@seniorhub.org.
Whether you are a caregiving spouse or an adult child, when an older adult becomes seriously or chronically ill the route to finding help and resources can be overwhelming. If you are in the caregiver role, you need to ensure that you have adequate assistance. The Senior Hub, a nonprofit agency, has been a central source of support, resources, and advocacy for older adults and their families in the northern and eastern metropolitan region for twenty years.
Arlene Peterson and Carol Taylor Boyd oversee the Respite and In-Home Supportive Services Program. Respite provides caregivers with essential "breaks" from caregiving responsibilities, whether for a few hours to keep medical appointments, attend church, shop or for longer if necessary. Arlene and Carol expertly identify and match respite volunteers and employees with clients. Caregivers are also eligible to participate in support groups facilitated by Arlene in any of three locations: Brighton, Federal Heights or Aurora.
In-Home Support is geared to provide older adults with specific services they may need to remain independent, such as housekeeping or shopping assistance. In many cases, friendship and personal contact through this program is as healing as the assistance.
The Senior Hub's Adult Day Service, supervised by Tia Sauceda, provides a safe and social environment Monday through Friday for adults with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or other chronic health conditions. The Adult Day Service team provides a range of positive activities designed to help participants maintain their physical and mental health. Grant assistance is available for many of these services, depending on need.
The Care Management program at The Senior Hub is overseen by Lew Forester, who is also the agency's Senior Solutions Director. Mr. Forester has extensive knowledge and many years of experience in linking seniors and their caregivers to relevant programs and services. The Care Management program provides a comprehensive needs assessment and care plan and then arranges for needed services, such as personal care, housekeeping, medication management, and transportation. The care manager monitors service delivery, changes in client needs, and acts as a liaison between providers and family members.