November Is Wyoming Caregiver Month

The month of November is a time to recognize, support, and empower family caregivers. The theme for National Family Caregivers Month is “Caregiving Around the Clock.”

I home cared my father. Trust me when I say these folks need all the help they can get.

The Wyoming Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association has volunteers serving the 10,000 Wyomingites living with Alzheimer's and dementia, along with their 28,000 caregivers and the general public.

They provide education programs; offer support groups for caregivers; provide individual care consultations; and advocate on the state and federal levels for our constituents.

Caregiving is hard on the person doing it, especially if they are doing it alone.

Doing the loving thing for a family member or someone they love can be one of the hardest mental and emotional challenges a person can face.

But they don't need to be alone.

These groups raise the funds needed to support national and international research and fuel our Wyoming mission.

They offer classes and training for caregiving.

Support groups.

Volunteers to help the caregiver with their home needs.

I lived with my father for 6 years. I can't express enough how important these services are. Please take advantage of them if you are caregiving.

Please bring these services to someone you know who is caregiving.

If you are caring for someone yourself, make sure you take advantage of the programs that give you respect.

You need to get out, have fun, be with friends.

You can't help the one you live if you're falling apart. Be sure to take care of yourself.

--- Glenn Woods