Program Slated On Caregiving

HOLYOKE — WestMass ElderCare and Holyoke Community College will present a comprehensive program on caregiving in the college’s Peter Picknelly Dining Room on Nov. 7, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Titled Together We Care, the program will address many of the issues facing caregivers today. The event will feature an open discussion led by professionals who represent various support programs. A caregiver is described by the National Family Caregivers Assoc. as someone who has a deep personal relationship with someone who is chronically ill or disabled, and whose own life has been impacted by their loved one’s condition. It is estimated that there are now 54 million people who fit that description. The program will provide advice on how to become a better caregiver and to relieve the stress that accompanies such work. It will offer tips on how to: • Identify services that may be available to caregivers; • Know when to ask for help from other family members, friends, and service providers; • Stay in touch with one’s friends and interests; • Prioritize one’s caregiving and do what is most important; • Know one’s limits and set realistic goals for oneself; • Stay healthy and eat right. For additional information, call West-Mass ElderCare at (413) 538-9020.