February 2018 edition

caregiver support program
Montgomery County MD Caregiver Support Program eNewsletter
February 2018 edition 

 
Share this e-newsletter and encourage others to subscribeclick here for signup link 

Stay in touch visit the County's Caregiver Support webpage: click here to visit 



Montgomery County's Caregiver Support Program and its partners help caregivers through support groups, education, practical support and respite care: visit this excellent video



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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

Montgomery County's Caregiver Program launches
Community Outreach Events 
    Starting February 2018   

Every day as a caregiver you experience joys and challenges.mcg
All caregivers benefit through: practical guidance, emotional support and as needed: connection with skilled providers.
Caregiver support is a vital part of our community.  

These informal events are welcoming to all community members who provide care for their loved one.
Come with your questions and learn about:
  • County resources for caregivershas
  • Tools to navigate local supports
  • How care-givers can maintain a healthy mind, body and soul
  • Planning ahead as a caregiver
  • and much more
You are welcome to attend one or more sessions.
All events are free and non commercial.
Events are offered throughout the County, daytime, evening and weekends.


RSVP is essential: click here to register
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February Dates
  • Thursday Feb 8, 6.30-8.30pm, Olney Library
  • Friday Feb 9, 6.30-8.30pm, Bethesda Chevy Chase Regional Center
  • Monday Feb 12, 6.30-8.30pm, Silver Spring Library
  • Wednesday Feb 22, 6.30pm-8.30pm, Davis Library
  • Tuesday Feb 27, 6.30-8.30pm, Marilyn Praisner Library

Early March Dates
  • Monday Mar 5, 6.30-8.30pm, Poolsville Library
  • Wednesday Mar 14, 6.30pm-8.30pm, Damascus Library
  • Friday Mar 16, 12noon - 2pm, East County Recreation Center
  • Saturday Mar 17, 1-3pm, Silver Spring Library
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SUPPORT GROUPS

Montgomery Hospice
Forever Yours: A Valentine’s Day Workshop    cgs
A special workshop for widows, widowers and life partners who want to honor and remember their loved ones as a comfort before Valentine’s Day.

Date Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2018
Time 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
Location Montgomery Hospice, 1355 Piccard Drive, Rockville
Contact details: Linda Horenstein (or anyone in the bereavement department)
Phone: 301-921-4400

To Register: click here 
Website: www.montgomeryhospice.org



OASIS      oasis
February-March 2018 
Starting Wednesday, February 7,  10:30am-12pm.
8 Sessions
Dates: February 7, 14, 21 & 28, March 7, 14, 21 & 28

Location: Washington Metropolitan OASIS
Macy’s Home Store - Westfield Montgomery Mall
7125 Democracy Boulevard Bethesda, MD 20817
Phone:301-469-6800 Press 1, then extension 211
Email: washingtonmetro@oasisnet.org

Even when caring for a loved one is an act of love, it still takes many new skills and a great deal of energy. It also raises a lot of questions. Our Caregiver Series will offer a place to learn from the experiences of others and to encourage those who are in similar circumstances. The sessions will be facilitated by compassionate professionals. Some sessions will spotlight expert guest speakers on a variety of topics to support you in your caregiving journey. Most sessions will allow time for questions and group discussion. This group is strictly for those who are in a caregiver role. This series is sponsored by Family and Nursing Care. Limit: 18


Alzheimer's Association Presentations in Montgomery County

    alz assoc

February Community Education Programs

February 5, 2-3 pm.
The Basics: Memory Loss, Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
North Potomac Community Recreation Center, 13850 Travilah Rd, Rockville, MD 20850.

February 6, 2-3:30 pm.
Living With Alzheimer’s for People with Dementia part I 
Rockville Senior Center, 1150 Carnation Dr. Rockville, MD 20850.

February 7, 2:30-4 pm.
Living with Alzheimer’s for Caregivers – Middle Stage part I
Maplewood Park Place, 9707 Old Georgetown Rd, Bethesda, MD 20814.

February 12, 1-2 pm.
Know the 10 Signs 
Liberty Road United Methodist Church,
15225 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville, MD 20886.    cgs

February 13, 10:30-12 pm,
Know the 10 Signs.
Holy Cross Resource Center, 9805 Dameron Dr, Silver Spring, MD 20902.

February 13, 1-2:30 pm,
Living with Alzheimer’s for People with Dementia part II
Rockville Senior Center, 1150 Carnation Dr, Rockville, MD 20850

February 14, 2:30-4 pm.
Living with Alzheimer’s for Caregivers Middle Stage part II
Maplewood Park Place, 9707 Old Georgetown Rd, Bethesda, MD 20814.

February 20, 1-2:30 pm.
Living with Alzheimer’s for People with Dementia part III 
Rockville Senior Center, 1150 Carnation Dr., Rockville, MD 20850.

February 21, 2:30-4 pm.
Living with Alzheimer’s for Caregivers Middle Stage part III
Maplewood Park Place, 9707 Old Georgetown Rd, Bethesda, MD 20814

February 28, 2:30-4 pm.
Living with Alzheimer’s for Caregivers Late Stage part I
Maplewood Park Place, 9707 Old Georgetown Rd, Bethesda, MD 20814.

February 28, 6:30-8 pm.
Dementia Conversations: Driving, Doctor Visits, Legal and Financial Planning
Brookdale Potomac, 11215 Seven Locks Rd, Potomac, MD 20854


February 2, 2, 2-3:30pm
New Memory Café
Macy's Home Store (2nd floor) 7125 Democracy Blvd, Bethesda, MD 20817.

 

To register for an Alzheimer's Association program, please call 1.800.272.3900 or email dvance@alz.org or call Diane Vance, 240-428-1342 to register.

cgs
About:
Alzheimer's Association Support Groups
Peer-led groups for caregivers and others dealing with Alzheimer's disease. All support groups are facilitated by trained individuals. Many locations offer specialized groups for children, individuals with younger-onset specialized groups from children, individuals with younger-onset and early-stage Alzheimer's, adult caregivers and others with specific needs. To learn about our support groups and community presentations, please call our 24/7 Helpline: 800.272.3900 or visit our website at alz.org/nca.

Alzheimer's Association Care Consultation Services
Feel overwhelmed and confused after a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or dementia? We're here to help. Our care consultation services are designed to provide you and family support in coping with dementia (form pre-diagnosis to end-of-life). You will receive one on one advice to better understand the disease, to manage care, and to make more informed treatment decisions. For more information, or to schedule a care consultation, please call 1.800.272.3900. This service is available at no charge thanks to our donors.

Alzheimer's Association Memory Cafes
Memory Cafes offer a fun and relaxed way for people living with early-stage memory loss to get connected with one another through social events that promote interaction and companionship. To learn about our meeting locations, please contact Diane Vance at 240.428.1342, dvance@alz.org.

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CAREGIVER EVENTS


HOLY CROSS CAREGIVER RESOURCE CENTER
   
hch
"Progression" is a dvd to help family members recognize symptoms that indicate the disease is progressing and identify the help that is most effective in each stage. It also provides suggestions to assist with future planning to meet these needs.
Tuesday, January 9, 2018 10:30am – 12:00pm 
 
Holy Cross Caregiver Resource Center
9805 Dameron Drive, Silver Spring, room 21

Please call 301-754-7152 for more information and to register.



Olney Caregiver Academyolney

Go from Overwhelmed to Ordered       

Saturday 03 February
1:00pm - 2.30pm 
Held at:
Olney Assisted Living     
16940 Georgia Ave, Olney
About
Become a world-class advocate for your loved one. Learn the key information you will need to navigate your journey and help protect your loved one from elder abuse and fraud.
Presented by Kay Bransford
or  call 301.570.0525
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Independence Now for an Open House!
February 28, 2018    IN
8-11am or 4-6pm
If you only know a little about us or only know about one service we provide, come and learn about all we have to offer on
Click here for more information 
Independence Now is a nonprofit organization designed, governed and staffed by people with disabilities. We are part of a nationwide network of Centers for Independent Living providing the following core services: Information and Referral; Advocacy; Peer Support; and Independent Living Skills training.

Location: 12301 Old Columbia Pike, Suite 101
Silver Spring, MD 20904
Phone: 240-898-2183

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SMITHSONIAN MUSEUM

See Me  at the National Museum of African Art 
A message from lead Educator, Michelle Edwards…. The experience of loaamoking closely allows us to appreciate beauty, exchange ideas, share memories or simply respond to the work in front of us. We invite individuals living with dementia, together with their family members or care partners, to join us for an interactive and multi-sensory tour of the museum.   
This group meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month.
All session are offered: 2pm - 3:30 pm
  • April 24  - Afro-futurism: African Art in Pop Culture
  • May 29  - Snap Shot: Art and Selfie 
  • June 26  - Making a Splash: Water in African Art
  • July 24  - Repurposed: Reduce, Reuse & Recycle Art
  • August 28  - Dance Off: African Art in Motion 
Location: 50 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560
Pavilion, Ground floor access
Metro: Smithsonian Station

See Me at the National Portrait Gallery      pg
The National Portrait Gallery tells the story of America by portraying the people - including artists, politicians, scientists, inventors, activists, and performers - who shape the nation’s history, development and culture.
This group meets on the 2nd Tuesday of each month.
All session are offered: 2pm - 3:30 pm 
  • Dates: March 13, April 10, May 8, June 12, July 10
Location/point of access: 8th & G St., NW
Metro: Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro

See Me  at the Smithsonian American Art Museum   
The Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collection aamcaptures the aspirations, character, and imagination of the American people throughout three centuries, revealing key aspects of America’s rich artistic and cultural history.
This group meets on the first Wednesday of each month (except for in July)
All session are offered: 2pm - 3:30 pm
  • Dates: April 4, May 2, June 6, July 11 
Location/point of access: 8th & G St., NW
Metro: Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro


See Me at the Freer|Sackler  
The Freer Gallery of Art and Arthufreerr M. Sackler Gallery preserve and share the treasures of Asia, making inspiring connections between Asia, America, and the world.
This group meets on the third Wednesdays of each month.
All session are offered: 2pm - 3:30 pm
  • Dates: February 21, March 21, April 18, May 16, June 20, July 18
Location/point of access: 1050 Independence Ave SW
Metro: Smithsonian Institution

About:
Entrance is free, however registration is required.
Participants may register by email: click here or by calling 202-633-2921.
For additional information such as group size or time concerns, please contact Ashley Grady, Program Specialist (GradyA@si.edu).

RESOURCES AND UPDATES


The Medicare Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), also known as “Extra Help,” gives low-income Medicare be
neficiaries help with Medicare Part D prescription drug costs. LIS can easily save individuals with costly prescriptions thousands of dollars per year by helping with premiums, deductibles and co-pays. Despite these major benefits, many people who qualify for LIS have not enrolled.
Advocates and counselors can hmcliselp by talking to their clients about Extra Help and encouraging them to apply.
To help you encourage your clients to apply for help, here’s five facts you should know about Medicare LIS.

Click here to read the Fact Sheet


Request a Free Case Consultation
Case consultation assistance is available for attorneys and professionals seeking more information to help older adults. To arrange an appointment click here 

General Contract Info: 
National Center on Law & Elder Rights (NCLER)
NCLER.acl.gov
@NCLERlegal



From Next Avenue

Part of the TRANSFORMING LIFE AS WE AGE SPECIAL REPORT

Back in June, Next Avenue wrote about the stresses manyraise of America’s 40 million family caregivers feel: “Perhaps one day, Congress will pass something like the bipartisan Recognize, Assist, Include, Support and Engage (RAISE) Family Caregivers Act.” It recently did and President Trump has signed it into law.  
The RAISE Act aims to help relatives and partners who provide medical, household and financial assistance to loved ones.

The RAISE Family Caregivers Act requires the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to develop, maintain and update an integrated national strategy to support family caregivers


Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine and a Next Avenue Influencer in Aging) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and Representatives Greg Harper (R-Miss.) and Kathy Castor (D-Fla.) spearheaded the legislation.
AARP has been a longtime advocate of caregivers, click here to read about the Family Caregiver Act (RAISE)




"Congressional Stories of Family Caregiving: Challenges, Rewards, and a Call to Action"

cs
The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) has released a proceedings paper from a briefing on Capitol Hill where legislators shared their personal stories of family caregiving to illustrate the caregiving experience and the challenges that accompany it.   


"Congressional Stories of Family Caregiving: Challenges, Rewards, and a Call to Action" includes the personal stories of family caregiving by six members of the U.S. House of Representatives, recommendations from the "Families Caring for an Aging America" National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine report, and caregiving-relevant legislation.

The briefing was supported by The John A. Hartford Foundation and partners were AARP, the Alzheimer’s Association, and the National Alliance for Caregiving.

SAVE THE DATE


Wednesday, March 7, 2018 | 10:30AM – 12:00PM
Redefining Aging: A Caregiver’s Guide to Living Your Best Life
Kenwood Golf & Country Club
5601 River Road Bethesda, MD 20816
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
events.suburbanhospital.org or call 301-896-3939
LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED
Sponsored by: Johns Hopkins University and Suburban Hospital - Johns Hopkins Medicine


Caring for a loved one can be overwhelming. Best-selling author Dr. Ann Kaiser Stearns couples findings from the latest research with powerful insights and problem-solving tips to help caregivers achieve the best life possible for those they care for – and themselves – as they age.
This presentation will cover:
• How to resist the “stereotype threat” of ageism
• How to embrace fulfilling life experiences despite the fatigue and stress of caregiving
• How to distinguish between normal aging vs. the early signs of dementia
There will be a Q&A session with Dr. Stearns as well as book sales and signing
Redefining Aging: A Caregiver’s Guide to Living Your Best Life
FREE EVENT
Caring for a loved one can be overwhelming. Best-selling author Dr. Ann Kaiser Stearns couples findings from the latest research with powerful insights and problem-solving tips to help caregivers achieve the best life possible for those they care for – and themselves – as they age.
This presentation will cover:
• How to resist the “stereotype threat” of ageism
• How to embrace fulfilling life experiences despite the fatigue and stress of caregiving
• How to distinguish between normal aging vs. the early signs of dementia
There will be a question and answer session with Dr. Stearns as well as book sales and signing.
To learn more about Redefining Aging: A Caregiver’s Guide to Living Your Best Life, click here for the Johns Hopkins University Press page. 

LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED





Register today!
OASIS
May-June 2018
Caregiver Support Group
Series begins on Wednesday, May 9 10:30am-12pm.
8 Sessions
Dates: May 9,16, 23, 30 and June 6, 13, 23 & 30

Location: Washington Metropolitan OASIS
Macy’s Home Store
Westfield Montgomery Mall
7125 Democracy Boulevard
Bethesda, MD 20817

Phone: 301-469-6800 Press 1, then extension 211
Email: washingtonmetro@oasisnet.org


Even when caring for a loved one is an act of love, it still takes many new skills and a great deal of energy. It also raises a lot of questions. Our Caregiver Series will offer a place to learn from the experiences of others and to encourage those who are in similar circumstances. The sessions will be facilitated by compassionate professionals. Some sessions will spotlight expert guest speakers on a variety of topics to support you in your caregiving journey. Most sessions will allow time for questions and group discussion. This group is strictly for those who are in a caregiver role. This series is sponsored by Family and Nursing Care. Limit: 18


CAREGIVERS AND EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT
Caregivers Support When Returning to the Workforce
   
Need to land a job? JCA is your older worker expert.
Finding employment is one of the biggest challenges faced by many older adults, and JCA helps jobseekers in several ways.
JCA's Career Gateway! offers intensive training, take-home materials, a long-term mentor and individual attention for mid-level managers and other professionals who are seeking employment at age 50+.    jca

Job Search Training for those who are 50+
Are you over age 50 and frustrated by your job search? JCA’s Career Gateway Program can help you perfect your resume, polish your networking and interviewing skills, use Internet job search resources more effectively, and turn your age and experience to your advantage.. Each session of the Career Gateway features 30 hours of small-group classroom instruction over five days, comprehensive take-home materials, practical exercises, and a long-term mentor – all for only $75! Sessions run from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm.

Register Today!
Multiple 2017-2018 Sessions remain available:
Session IV – March 5, 7, 9, 12, and 14
Session V – April 23, April 25, April 27, April 30, and May 2

For more information, call Jodie Rasch at 301-255-4215
or email her at jodie.rasch@accessjca.org

Hosted by JCA  To learn more click here


MONTGOMERY COUNTY CAREGIVER RESOURCES
If you are a family caregiver in Montgomery County and seek assistance, contact:


Montgomery County Government's Aging and Disability Services
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) County's Area Agency on Aging (AAA)
240-777-3000mcg
Click here to visit the Aging and Disability website     
The Aging and Disability Services (A&DS) serves seniors and people with disabilities, and offers resources to help people to remain in the community safely and independently. Resources that may be discussed include but are not limited to: long term care planning; assistance with activities of daily living; adult day care; home health care; transportation options; File of Life; senior centers adult foster care; group homes; assisted living; nutrition and mental health options. 
Aging and Disability Services is also the entry point for customers for an intake for case management services, including Adult Protective Services (APS). The Office has workers to discuss caller concerns and situations and if needed, for any additional follow up.  Office hours are Monday and Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, the office is open from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM.

ADRU has a designated bi-lingual Spanish specialist on staff.  All staff can also provide support through high-quality translation and interpretation, minimizing cultural and linguistic barriers.

 


Alzheimer’s Association
800-272-3900   alz assoc
alz.org
Click here to see the  National Capital Area Chapter Caregiver Class Calendar
The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. Access information and resources through the Association's web site and free, professionally-staffed 24/7 Helpline, with translation services in more than 200 languages. Education programs and support groups are offered both in the community and online.



Holy Cross Caregiver Resource Center
301-754-7152   hch
Click here to visit the website 
The Holy Cross Caregiver Resource Center is a wealth of information and supportive services for caregivers. If you’re living with aging parents, or caring for a loved one or friend, the center is your go-to resource for support, education and the latest on healthy aging, and disease diagnosis and treatment.

The center’s health information library is a complimentary service that provides caregivers access to books, DVDs, audiotapes and videotapes on caregiver issues and health-related topics, as well as pamphlets, AARP publications and reprints of health-related articles. Other caregiver resources of this hospital library include brochures from local resources, and listings of aging adult services in our community.

The center’s complimentary newsletter is published three times a year to provide tips, book reviews, resources, articles on care giving, and listings of the center’s upcoming seminars, lectures and support groups. View the latest issue of Caregiver News and sign up online or call 301-754-7152 to add your name to the mailing list.

The center also hosts a Caregiver Telephone Helpline at 301-754-7152 to answer questions about services and resources for caregivers.

The senior resources’ center also hosts caregiver support groups, where spouses and adult children can share sorrows and problems, joys and successes, resources and solutions. The center also periodically sponsors caregiver education classes featuring information on everything from handling your aging parent’s finances and first aid—to CPR.



Montgomery County Police Autism/IDD/Alzheimer's Outreach Program
240-773-6525
Click here to visit website    
There are a number of excellent videos that explain this impactful program, click here

Police, Fire and Rescue also partnered on the Dementia Friendly initiative,
see these videos: click here  - and - click here     idd
The Montgomery County Police Autism/IDD/Alzheimer's Outreach Program provides a layered approach to Alzheimer's/Autism/IDD safety and awareness through education, follow up, and response. 
Upon request, Montgomery County Police provide wearable ID bracelets to County residents at risk of wandering and getting lost. These can help first responders and others identify a family caregiver to contact in the event an individual becomes lost or needs
medical help and cannot fully explain their situation.


The Arc Montgomery County (Respite Program)
301-816-9647
Click here to visit the website 
If you reside in Montgomery County and are an unpaid, live-in, primary caregiver for a frail senior citizen, you may apply for respite care from The Arc Montgomery County.
Our respite program can provide short-term relief for a few hours, a day, a weekend, or sometimes longer. However, respite care is not a substitute for ongoing care or adult day care. It's just a way to support families who take care of their loved ones at home. Families can choose from many respite care venues, including the family home, adult medical day programs, and approved respite facilities.

Respite may provide a subsidy to pay a Respite Care Provider (RCP), but it is not an entitlement. Eligibility for a subsidy does not guarantee funds for each respite occasion requested. There is limited funding for respite care and our goal is to assist as many families as possible each month.






MONTGOMERY COUNTY'S DIVERSITY COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Montgomery County's Asian American Health Initiative

The mission of the Asian American Health Initiative is to identify the aahihealth care needs of Asian American communities, to develop culturally competent health care services, and to implement health education programs that are accessible and available for all Asian Americans in Montgomery County.  In support of this mission, AAHI works:   
  • To conduct in-depth data collection, analysis, and reporting of the health status among the different ethnic groups in the Asian American community;
  • To expand and improve the existing health services available to Asian Americans;
  • To ensure the availability of quality health care directed to the specific needs of the different ethnic groups in the community;
  • To provide outreach programs to inform and educate different ethnic groups about the accessibility and the availability of health care services;
  • To remove barriers preventing all ethnic groups in the Asian American community from receiving a fair share of health services.
To learn more click here 


Montgomery County's African American Health Program

African Americans and people of African descent in Montgomery County will be as healthy and safe as the rest of the population.aahp

GOALS
  • Raise awareness in the Montgomery County community about key health disparities.
  • Integrate African American health concerns into existing services and programs.
  • Monitor health status data for African Americans in Montgomery County.
  • Implement and evaluate strategies to achieve specific health objectives.
STRATEGY
  • Bring together community partners and resources in a collaborative and effective manner to support AAHP goals.
  • AAHP focuses on six major health areas: infant mortality, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, oral health, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Services provided include outreach, health education, support groups, and nurse case management. The program is staffed by registered nurses, health educators, and community outreach personnel.



Latino American Health Initiative
The mission of the LHI is to improve the quality of life of Latinos living in Montgomery County by contributing to the development and implementation of an integrated, coordinated, culturally and linguistically competent health wellness system that supports, values, and respects Latino families and communities.    lahi

Overall functions
  • Enhance coordination between existing health programs and services targeting Latinos.
  • Provide technical assistance to programs serving the Latino community.
  • Develop and support models of programs and services to adequately reach Latinos.
  • Advocate for policies and practices needed to effectively reach and serve Latinos.
Who is involved with the LHI?
  • The LHI is comprised of staff members from the Department of Health and Human Services and a group of volunteer professionals and community leaders. These individuals work as a team to inform the Latino community about the LHI and to collect feedback from them regarding their health concerns. In addition, this group acts as the planning body for the LHI and advocates to improve the health of Latino communities.


Click here to learn more




This newsletter is produced by Montgomery County’s Caregiver Support Program, Department of Health and Human Services, Area Agency on Aging.
Program Facilitator: Lylie Fisher – lylie.fisher@montgomerycountymd.gov