Seabrook Island Village—Neighbors Helping Neighbors, held a program titled “The Empowered Caregiver” on Monday, October 19, at the Lake House. The event drew more than 70 participants and featured two impressive speakers.
Venita Olson, with the South Carolina Alzheimer’s Association, led a presentation and follow-up discussion on how caregivers, friends, neighbors, and healthcare professionals can prepare for effective communication with someone who has dementia. Venita discussed using a person-centered approach by drawing on what the caregiver knows about the person’s unique abilities and preferences. She emphasized the importance of recognizing that changes in behavior are caused by the disease, not the individual.
Sara Perry, of Respite Care Charleston, shared information about the services and support systems available to Seabrookers through the organization she leads. She described support groups for caregivers and programs for people living with dementia, and she offered contact information and personal assistance through Respite Care Charleston.
For information about upcoming events, please visit seabrookislandvillage.org.
-Submitted by Seabrook Island Village
(Image credit: Seabrook Island Village)