Spectrum Generations Family Caregiver Support Program is providing four Maine Savvy Caregiver trainings this spring and summer. Savvy Caregiver is a 12-hour training program for family caregivers of people with dementing disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.   These trainings are sponsored by the Office of Elder Services, Department of Health and Human Services and funded by a grant from the U.S. Administration on Aging.    

Assuming that family members have often taken on the role of caregiving without any preparation or training, the program provides family members with knowledge of the disease and available resources.  Participants learn skills for dealing with losses that the disease produces in the person, as well as skills on how to take care of oneself as a caregiver.  Participants build an attitude that fosters confidence and a sense of mastery in the caregiver role.

Trainings will be held in the following locations:

Spectrum Generations Coastal Community Center: Damariscotta

Thursdays: May 5, 12, 19, 26 June 2 and 9

10 AM until Noontime

• First Parish Church: Pilgrim House: Brunswick

Wednesdays: May 11, 18, 25 June 1, 8, 15

1 PM until 3 PM

• Redington Fairview General Hospital: Skowhegan

Wednesdays: June 22 and 29 July 13, 20, 27 August 3

1PM  until 3 PM

• Spectrum Generations Cohen Center: Hallowell

Mondays August 15, 22, 29 September 12, 19 and 26

5PM until 7PM

Sessions include training, interactive exercises, and discussion. Between sessions, caregivers have readings, exercises and assignments to complete and report back to the group on the home activities.  Feedback will be provided and strategies developed to support successful caregiving.

Pre-registration is required. To obtain more information or to register, please call 1-800-282-0764 ext.127or 139.

For more information about Spectrum Generations other programs and services, call 1-800-639-1553, or visit us online at www.spectrumgenerations.org.