For those individuals who are currently caring for an older adult or who will be in the future, Geriatric Interest Network of the Blair County Region has scheduled its second Caregiver’s Conference on May 5, beginning at 8:30 a.m., at the Health-South Rehabilitation Hospital of Altoona.
There is no fee for the conference, but space is limited and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The registration deadline for the event is April 21.
Presentations have been designed for the conference to help caregivers of older adults understand the many roles and responsibilities of daily caregiving.
“I feel that it’s going to be very informational this year,” said Paulette Feather, director of Adult Day Activities Center in Altoona. “Any information someone can take from this would be beneficial.
“It never hurts for someone to be in a group with people who are experiencing the same things they are experiencing,” added Feather.
The schedule for the day will begin with registration from 8:30-9 a.m. at Health-South Rehabilitation Hospital of Altoona. Presenter Amy Orr Rosensteel of the Law Firm of Evey, Routch and Black, Attorneys will discuss living wills and power of attorney documents as the first program scheduled from 9-10 a.m.
From 10-11 a.m., the topic will be financial qualifications for services by Betsy Brooks, income maintenance caseworker supervisor for the Department of Welfare; Patricia Antesberger, Blair Senior Services director of long term care services; Judith Ott, community health nurse for Veterans Administration and a representative from the Social Security office.
From 11:15-noon, Jane Maslonik, registered dietitian from Health-South will discuss nutritional needs of older adults.
Lunch will be served from noon-1:15 p.m., compliments of Health-South.
In the afternoon, from 1:15-2:30 p.m., physical therapists from Health-South will offer a demonstration of the proper techniques to be used when lifting or transferring an older adult. Hands-on demonstrations during this time will also be available.
The final presentation is scheduled from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Donna Hescox-Bauer, RN, C, support group facilitator will discuss coping strategies for caregivers.
To register for the conference or for more information, contact Feather at 946-4693. Reservations will be confirmed before the day of the conference.
Should an older adult need assistance during the time of the conference, contact Feather for information regarding complimentary day care services.
