Conference Helps Family Caregivers Thrive, Not Just Survive

For Immediate Release: Thursday, October 16, 2014

Family caregivers play an essential role in the health and well-being of their loved ones, making it possible for them to stay in their homes longer and have a better quality of life. Most of us will be caregivers at some point in our lives. It is estimated that more than 300,000 Oregon residents currently provide care for family members.

Caregivers face many challenges and issues of their own, including physical and emotional stress, less time for their personal and family life, and balancing work and caregiving responsibilities.

To offer thanks and encouragement to family caregivers, a day-long conference called "Thrive (Don't Just Survive) While Caregiving" is being offered on Friday, November 14. It is free for unpaid family caregivers.

This year's conference will focus on caring for yourself while providing care and features a variety of speakers as well as a resource fair. Session topics include legal issues for caregivers, preparing your home for safe caregiving, bringing healthy energy back into your life, dealing with dementia, and nourishing yourself and your loved one.

Keynote speaker Susan Hedlund, LCSW, is manager of Patient and Family Support Services at Knight Cancer Institute of OHSU. She will discuss "The Unsung Heroes: Caregivers and their Journey." Based on the assistance she provides to families coping with caregiving, Hedlund recognizes that it can be stressful and will address ways to stay healthy and thrive while caregiving.

This community event will take place on November 14 at the Tuality Health Education Center, 334 SE 8th Ave, Hillsboro. It begins at 9:00 a.m. with refreshments and ends at 2:30 p.m. Lunch is included. It is sponsored by Washington County Disability, Aging and Veteran Services Family Caregiver Support Program, OSU Extension Service and Tuality Healthcare. Additional support comes from the Law Office of Nay and Friedenberg, Adeo In-Home Care, Home Instead Senior Care and Visiting Angels.

Space is limited, and reservations are required by calling 503-846-3089.

Media Contact:

Wendy Gordon, Communications Coordinator/PIO
503-846-3634
[email protected]