Updated 1/23/2023
Verona Caregivers Group (L,V)
1. Have access to wisdom of other caregivers.
2. Have an outlet for emotions & have feelings validated.
3. Find people to socialize and do check-ins with.
4. Reduce feelings of isolation, loneliness or depression.
5. Get a better idea of what to expect in the future.
6. Gain a sense of empowerment and control.
7. Improve your caregiving skills.
8. Learn ways to keep your loved one at home.
Verona Caregivers Support Group – Caregivers group offers an option of attending virtually via Zoom on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 10 AM. Call 608-845-7471 for more information.
The group aims to offer support and resources to any caregivers, both past and present. Everyone welcome!
Here is the link for the first Tuesday: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81102054083?pwd=NzdwTERFSEdETi9FM0lHU25Gemp1dz09
And here is the link for the third Tuesday: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89231309484?pwd=YytWb1U1TmQ5bEFJblBZMGcydE1Ndz09
Being a Caregiver
The act of caregiving takes dedication and planning. For someone who is in it for the long haul, a crucial part of making it work is selfcare. Where can caregivers turn to for such support? In Dane County there is support available for caregivers, including but not limited to, groups, case management, respite care and financial support. Additionally, there are hospice services available when appropriate.
Need assistance finding support? Feel free to reach out to case management by calling Julie at 608-848-0440.
Area Support
Dane County Caregivers program focuses on caring for the caregiver and offers grants, referrals and resources, support groups, specialized services for grandparent caregivers and a monthly newsletter. To learn more visit ttps://www.danecountyhumanservices.org/Disability-and-Aging/SeniorServices/Family-Caregiver-Support.
Agree (never argue)
Redirect (never reason)
Distract (never shame)
Reassure (never lecture)
Reminisce (never say “remember”)
Say “Do what you can”
(never say “you can’t)
Ask (never command)
Encourage & Praise (never condescend)
Reinforce (never force)
For other groups in the area visit: http://www.daneadrc.org
Caregivers often think of others and “givers” by nature. Caregivers will often not reach out when they need help or will refuse help. “What can I do to help you?” could likely be met with “Oh I am fine, thanks for thinking of me.”
If you know a caregiver and have some time to spare, ask them if they need a break. Provide an afternoon of respite. Anything you can do to help the caregiver will be appreciated more than you will know. Many caregivers won’t ask for help, so by reaching out to them would be so, so helpful.
To support a caregiver, consider one or more of these ideas:
All Verona Senior Center virtual programming can be accessed by any type of phone. Call the Senior Center to register for an event and staff will give you the call-in phone number. If you leave a message, we will get back to you ASAP. When you call in for the event, you will need to enter a meeting ID and a passcode, all of which we will give you.
We have memory activity kits available for loan. Give us a call and we can arrange a pick up or drop off.