Spring 2012...a word from Geri Ward, AAA Director

Through funds received from the United States Department of Aging, the Georgia Division of Aging Services selected the Middle Georgia Area Agency on Aging as one of three area agencies in the state to offer “Powerful Tools for Caregivers,” a program developed to assist caregivers in reducing personal stress, changing negative self-talk, communicating more effectively in challenging situations, and dealing with the difficult feelings associated with caring for their loved ones.

The Middle Georgia Area Agency on Aging is seeking individuals to be trained as workshop leaders.  On May 1 and 2, in Macon, the AAA will be hosting a workshop to teach and certify class leaders.  Upon completion of the two day workshop, participants will be certified as class leaders for the Powerful Tools program.  There is no cost to participate in the training workshop; however, the Middle Georgia AAA is asking that each individual commit to offering and completing one six week class to caregivers in their community by December 31, 2012.

It is difficult to determine exactly how many individuals serve in a caregiving role.  What is known, however, is that the Southeastern United States, which includes Georgia, has the highest percentage of individuals serving in a caregiving role.  Approximately 18 percent of individuals in the Southeast provide some level of care to an elderly person or an individual with a disability.

Last year, the Middle Georgia AAA participated in a Caregiver Survey at the request of the Georgia Division of Aging Services and the United States Administration on Aging.  When asked about caregiver burden, the top three responses were:

• Caregiver’s loss of personal and/or social life;
• Caregiver in poor health; and
• Caregiver unable to provide the required care for the care receiver.

For more information on the “Powerful Tools for Caregivers” program, please call Beverly Link, Caregiver Specialist, at 478-751-6466.