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When a parent, spouse or loved one becomes ill, caregivers often take on a difficult, all-consuming role that requires not only giving support but also finding out information. A coalition of Greenwich organizations has stepped in to create Caregiver's Circle to support them.
"Caregivers need assistance along their journey and to know they are not alone," said Lori Contadino, gerontologist for Greenwich Adult Day Care. "The program provides two-fold benefits: We provide access to resources and information as well as a network of other people to take away some of the anxiety caregiving creates."
Caregiver's Circle is a six-week program created by the town of Greenwich, Greenwich Adult Day Care, the Junior League of Greenwich and the Greenwich chapter of the American Red Cross. The program held at the Greenwich Adult Cay Care's River House at 125 River Road Ext. in Cos Cob is designed to provide information on caregiving and a support network of other caregivers as well as respite for participants. Information sessions usually include discussing issues such as coping methods for the caregiver, the art of art therapy, safety and emergency preparedness and laughter.
Though sessions are typically held during the day, the committee is looking to serve a different crowd. "At our special evening session, we'll focus on a lot of administrative and legal issues," said Lisa Cooper of the Junior League. "It will be a different audience because it's tailored for the working folks."
Caregiver's Circle will host a special evening session on legal issues that may arise while caregiving as well as information about Medicare and Medicaid, called "From L to M: Legal to Medical Aspects of Caregiving." The evening session will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at the Greenwich chapter of the American Red Cross at 99 Indian Field Road. All Caregiver's Circle sessions are free, but advanced registration is required. To register, contact Marketing and Development Coordinator Melissa Hopkins at 203-622-0079 or by email.
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