The Alzheimer’s Association Miami Valley Chapter has launched a new Facebook Live series to help Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers.
The Facebook Live Caregiver Corner Series is a noontime program focused on a series of topics with Q&A period for caregivers to get details, advice and tips about topics ranging from how to avoid caregiver depression, to selfcare to activities to do at home with your loved one. The sessions, which are free to the public, broadcast every Wednesday and Friday on the Association’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/alzdayton/.
The Caregiver Corner series augments the Association’s regular educational programs. Those sessions, delivered through videoconferencing, often last one hour. Rebecca Hall, Director of Care & Support for the Miami Valley Alzheimer’s Association, said, the Facebook Live Caregiver Corner Series offers caregivers a shorter educational session – 30 minutes- with a greater opportunity for them to share immediate issues.
“We just want to be able to reach a wider audience. This allows us to focus on a specific topic and get more in-depth with it and be able to provide it in a shorter period of time,” Hall said. She said topics are selected from feedback the staff receives from calls with caregivers.
Because of COVID-19, unpaid caregivers are spending more time with their loved ones and possibly more time doing direct care. Alzheimer’s caregivers are reporting that they feel isolated, lonely and overwhelmed.
“We know that our caregivers are stressed trying to take care of the needs of their loved one, and we also know they need support,” Hall said. “While the Caregiver Corner Series is broadcast live these videos will live on the Association’s Facebook page, so they can be viewed at any time.”
During business hours, caregivers can contact the Association at 937.291.3332 or caregivers can also contact the Association through the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900, which provides around-the-clock care.
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