Caregiver Connection: April, May and June 2023
STORIES IN THIS ISSUE:
- Spring Mini-Conference
- Cultivate Moments of Positivity
- Free iPads or Chromebooks for Seniors
- Spring Activities
SPRING MINI-CONFERENCE "SELF-CARE FOR THE CAREGIVER" MAY 4
As the weather changes and we move into more hours of sunlight throughout the day, the world appears to be a brighter place. Beautiful flowers blooming, delicious bright food and increased opportunities to enjoy your favorite outdoor activities with loved ones. As a caregiver, sometimes many other things take precedence, however. This year, BCDA is hosting a mini-conference focusing on self-care that is designed to educate caregivers on caring for themselves while also providing for their care partner. Self-care is described as one’s ability to promote and maintain health, cope with life events, and prevent disease through self-defined enjoyable activities. Some might enjoy a spa day, while others could enjoy reading a new book, or simply walking around a nearby park. Join us virtually on
- 9 a.m.—Self-Massage with Al Muehlberger, retired Maryland Licensed Massage Therapist, Community College Professor, active advocate and practitioner of Holistic health, as well as a past caregiver for 18 years. Join Al to learn self-massage techniques that reduce stress and calm the mind.
- 10:15 a.m.—Coping Skills with Casey Saylor, MSW, Older Adult Project Manager from the Mental Health Association of Maryland. Join Casey for a conversation about what copings skills are, why they’re important and practical strategies you can start using right away. Participants will be invited to share about their personal coping strategies and resources.
- 11 a.m.—Break and a chance to win a self-care package!
- 11:15 a.m.—Nutritional Self-Care Strategies with Melanie Berdyck, MS, RD, CSOWM, LDN, CDCES, nutritionist/licensed dietician. Join Melanie for mindfulness, mood boosting foods, and lifestyle habits that take care of the caregiver!
- 12:15 p.m.—Loving Kindness Meditation and Closing Thoughts with Kathleen Koenig-Stoffel, M.S., Caregivers Program Manager, Reiki master practitioner and caregiver.
Meditation is one of the caregiver’s best tools for reducing stress, boosting resilience and enhancing inner calmness. In this mindfulness technique, learn to repeat positive phrases for three classic categories. This soothing meditation can be utilized before, during or after caregiving duties to refresh the mind and heart.
Supported by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Upsilon Epsilon Omega Chapter
CAREGIVERS CAN CULTIVATE MOMENTS OF POSITIVITY
- Noticing positive events
Being aware of the good things in your life, an antidote to narrowly focusing on the negative. - Capitalizing on positive events
A way of extending and savoring your good feelings, such as by telling someone else, writing them down or remembering the event later. - Mindfulness
Being aware of the present moment without judgment. Participants learn a guided mindful breathing exercise and incorporate mindfulness into daily activities like brushing teeth and washing dishes. - Noting personal strengths
Recognizing the personal resources you have at your disposal and how you enact them in your life, an antidote to feeling helpless. - Setting attainable goals
Choosing aims that are challenging but not too challenging, allowing you to feel accomplished and successful.
Source: American Heart Association
FREE IPADS OR CHROMEBOOKS FOR SENIORS!
Through federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and a Maryland State device grant, the BCDA will soon have 250 iPads and 600 Chromebooks to distribute to older adults that meet the following criteria:
- Age 60 years of age or older
- Reside in Baltimore County or are a member of a Baltimore County Senior Center
- Qualify as low-income (200 percent or less of poverty level, Single: $27,180, Couple: $36,620)
- Have the ability to learn the device
Upon receipt of an eligible application, the BCDA Office of Communications will work with the individual to:
- Schedule them to attend a training or pick-up event in the County.
- Assess if they need assistance applying for the Affordable Connectivity Program for reduced or free WiFi.
- Offer a brief training opportunity so they can make the most of their equipment.
- Connect the individual with BCDA programs like the OPAL Center programs, Senior Planet technology classes and our free Tech Support on Fridays.
If you have any questions, call 410-887-2002 or email BCDAtechtools@baltimorecountymd.gov.
SPRING ACTIVITIES FOR CAREGIVERS AND CARE PARTNERS
- Bird watching
- Flower sorting
- Fruit picking
- Gardening
- Picnics
- Scenery rides and walks
Enjoy what spring has to offer!