Savvy Caregiver Program supports family caregivers of individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or Related Dementia
Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley and the Healthy Living Center of Excellence received a grant of $27,573 from the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Foundation. The grant supports Savvy Caregiver trainings and workshops throughout New Hampshire and existing Savvy program activities in Massachusetts.
Regional trainings begin September 26, 2018, with a goal of training 20 new leaders being who will offer 20 workshops, reaching more than 200 program caregivers in New Hampshire.
According to Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley, more than 40 million Americans provide 37 billion hours of unpaid care each year for adult family members and friends. The burden is particularly challenging for family caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias.
“Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Foundation’s support will directly support caregiver trainings and expansion into New Hampshire, which will give family caregivers improved access to resources in their community, and develop the skills necessary to care for both for their loved one and for themselves” states Joan Hatem-Roy, Chief Executive Officer of Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley.
Topics in the trainings and workshop include: Acknowledging the Disease; Understanding Emotional Tolerance; Assessing the Patient’s Capabilities; Developing and Modifying Strategies; Establishing Realistic Goals; Problem Solving and Self-Care.
“Providing educational programs, we promote independence and empower caregivers to get the emotional support and encouragement they desperately need as they care for their loved ones,” said William Graham, Senior Vice President of Medicare Business for Harvard Pilgrim Health Care. “Harvard Pilgrim is proud to partner with Elder Services of Merrimack Valley to bring these opportunities to New Hampshire residents.”
Find a Savvy Caregiver program in New Hampshire by visiting the Healthy Living Center of Excellence’s website at www.healthyliving4me.org.
