We’ve heard in recent months from the Surgeon General and others about the importance of connection and the devastating impact social isolation can have on people’s health and well-being. Caregivers often feel like they are alone in the caregiving journey but there are 69 million others — 29 percent of the population — who are providing support or care for an older adult or someone with a disability or chronic illness.
In November, which is National Family Caregiver Month, take the opportunity to connect with those in your life who are caregiving. But let’s not stop there. We can advocate better for ourselves, others and for policy change. Caregiving is a team sport; we do better when we do it together.
The Butler County Department on Aging offers caregiver education (individual and group), respite and one-on-one assistance. The Harvey County Department on Aging offers one-on-one assistance, an educational newsletter and respite. The Central Plains Area Agency on Aging/Sedgwick County Department on Aging offers one-on-one assistance, monthly caregiver support groups, individual caregiver counseling, caregiver transportation (Sedgwick County only), in-home services and a caregiver group Facebook page. If you have questions about these or other community resources, call CPAAA at 855-200-2372.
CPAAA Caregiver Support Group
When: 3rd Wednesday of the month, 6-7:30 p.m.
Where: Home Health and Hospice of Kansas, 7607 E. Harry, Wichita
Monica Cissell is director of information and community services for CPAAA.
