Alzheimer’s and Dementia Training for Family Caregivers Offered

SPRINGFIELD — ‘Savvy Caregiver,’ a free six-session training series for family and friends caring for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s  will be offered beginning on Sept. 5 at Loomis Lakeside at Reeds Landing, 807 Wilbraham Road, Springfield.

The sessions will be held on Fridays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. through October 18. Class size is limited, for more information or to register call (413) 588-5184.

Developed by experts in caregiving techniques, Savvy Caregiver goes beyond introductory educational offerings and provides clinical-level training for family caregivers. Participants will graduate with skills to assess the abilities of their loved ones, strategies to manage activities of daily living, and a perspective on the course of Alzheimer’s and related disorders.

“It’s professional-level training for the non-professional, unpaid caregiver,” said Carol Constant, certified dementia practitioner and The Loomis Communities Director of Community Engagement.

Participants will receive a manual to refer to at home. They will have ‘homework’ following each session that will provide opportunities to practice new skills and assess how things are working between sessions.

For most family caregivers, caregiving itself is a new role, one for which training is needed, just as you would receive training for any new job. The Savvy Caregiver program helps caregivers better understand the changes their loved ones are experiencing, and how to best provide individualized care for them throughout the progression of Alzheimer’s or dementia. Participants will learn how to feel better about their caregiver role and how to care for themselves.

The program will be offered at no charge and conducted by certified Savvy Caregiver practitioners Constant and Dan Marx.