AMERICUS – Caregivers are very special people who find purpose in anticipating and meeting the needs of others. It can be an empowering and inspiring experience that adds real meaning to their lives. Often, however, caregivers become so involved in the care of their loved one, they neglect their own needs. This neglect can and usually does lead to problems such as depression, loneliness, and stress-related health issues.
Caring for a loved one with dementia amplifies the patient’s needs and results in strains on the caregiver.  On Saturday, July 30, Maranatha Baptist Church is hosting a free workshop developed by the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving (RCI) specifically for dementia caregivers.
The RCI believes caregivers who are given the information and tools they need have a better chance of sustaining their own well-being and the quality of life for the one for whom they care. This belief is the foundation of the newest program at RCI, “Dealing with Dementia.”
During the “Dealing with Dementia” Workshop, family caregivers of people with dementia will obtain a free copy of the new “Dealing with Dementia” guide.  Information covered in the guide includes the following topics:  Understanding Dementia, General Caregiving Tips, Dealing with Behavioral Issues, Taking Better Care of Yourself, and Resources.
Attendees will become familiar with the guide in order to easily find what they need when they need it.  Attendees will also learn a useful problem solving procedure and stress management techniques.
The guides and the workshops are provided free of charge as a project funded by the Administration on Community Living.
The workshop will be held from 1 to 5 p.m., and attendees are encouraged to arrive early for a light lunch that will be served at 12:30 p.m.
Seating is limited to 20 participants, so reservations should be madde as soon as possible by contacting Miranda Thomas at (229) 931-4545 or by email at miranda.thomas@gsw.edu.