I have been teaching this informational course since the early 1990's. Initially the content was based on what I wish I had known during the time I was the primary caregiver for my parents. Over the years, it has evolved to include knowledge that other caregivers need. Although is covers basic Caregiver issues, it is helpful to caregivers with any situation, no matter how long you have been providing care. There is always a new challenge in the world of Eldercare.
The goal of this class is to make your last time with your care receiver the best they can be. Taking this course gives you the opportunity to learn from a Professional Geriatric Care Manager. You gain from my years of experience, the many continuing education courses, and from what I've learned from my clients.
Caring for Aging begins with a Glossary of Elderspeak, words you will hear when dealing with physicians, in-home aides, assisted living staff, and other Eldercare professionals. We will discuss how to improve your communication with your parents or care receiver, how to hold a family meeting, how to coordinate care with siblings.
Upcoming Seminars:
The Emeritus Department at Richland College will offer "Aging Care - Now!" on Wednesday evenings beginning April 4 at 6pm. It will meet for 4 Wednesdays, 2 hours each night, for a total of 8 hours. The course is informal, bring your paper bag dinner. It will be interactive, not just 8 hours of lecture, but there will be plenty of time for you to ask questions about your particular situation and gain some insight into your special care receiver. To register for the course, wait until after the holidays, then call 972-238-6958.
This is the course description in more detail
I. Basic Eldercare
Glossary and definitions of ElderSpeak
Basic assessment
Guilt and Stressors – caring for the caregiver
Communicate with your care receiver
Boundaries
Family meeting – who makes the decisions?
How your support system changes over the lifespan
II. Housing Options
Spectrum from independent living through nursing home
Facility assessment ratings
The cost of staying at home; Home modifications
Transportation
How to pay for care
LTC insurance
Medicaid criteria
III. Medical Issues
Normal aging
Cognition and aging
Common medications
Dangers of herbals
Questions to ask the doctor
Chronic conditions
Incontinence
Finding a physician - geriatrician
Changing treatment goals with geriatrics
Medicare/. Medicaid/ HMO’s/ Medicare D
IV. Legal & Financial Options/ Death & Dying
Identify Assets
HIPAA
Elderlaw
Directives and other legalities
Glossary of death terms
Saying goodbye
DNR, OOHDNR, Directive, 5 Wishes
Life review/ Reminisce