Family caregivers in the Concord area who feel stretched thin have a new resource: a free, six-week virtual workshop from Cabarrus County Department of Social Services starting Wednesday, Aug. 26.
Registration is open now.
The program, called "Powerful Tools for Caregivers," meets every Wednesday from 2 to 4 p.m. through early October. It targets unpaid family members who care for aging parents, children with disabilities or other loved ones. The course aims to help caregivers improve communication skills, reduce guilt and manage stress, and build self-confidence.
Two Adult and Aging Services social workers who are also experienced caregivers will lead the sessions, according to a Cabarrus County government news release published Wednesday, Aug. 12.
A participant in a previous session, quoted in the county release, described the difference the course made: "I was about at my wit's end. The communication tools will (help create) a better atmosphere and contribute to improved attitudes for both of us. It will never be easy, but it is easier than it was."
Registrants receive "The Caregiver Helpbook" and other materials before the first session. Participants need a computer with internet access and a webcam.
To sign up, call 704-920-1400 and select option 7.
Caregivers who need help arranging care for a loved one during class time can contact DSS Family Caregiver Support Specialist Donna Warner at 704-920-1882. The county said respite assistance may be available.
Powerful Tools for Caregivers is a program headquartered at Iowa State University. Research shows it helps caregivers reduce depression, improve self-confidence and make greater use of community resources, according to the program's national website.
DSS has offered similar workshops before. A session called "Building Better Caregivers" ran on Wednesdays beginning April 15 using the same format and registration number.
Upcoming community dates:
- Wednesday, Aug. 26 — Powerful Tools for Caregivers virtual series begins, 2–4 p.m. Call 704-920-1400, option 7, to register.
