A group of folks who spend much of their time caring for friends and loved ones got a dose of pampering themselves last Friday.
In honor of Family Caregiver Month, area caregivers were celebrated at the 2008 Caregiver Appreciation Luncheon, held at the Cloquet Gospel Tabernacle last Friday.
The event, which drew some 45 participants, was sponsored by Carlton County Caregiver Connections and Volunteer Services of Carlton County Inc.
Guests were treated to a traditional holiday buffet, entertainment by Sue and Dorothy Weets and "pampering services" including chair and hand massage by Arlette Haupt of A-1 Massage Therapy and Jill Bartl of Body Connection Massage Clinic, aromatherapy by Al and Penny Keay of Birch Hill Happenings, and facial and makeup sessions by Fay Hill of Mary Kay Cosmetics.
Guest speaker was caregiver and educator Mary Alice Carlson.
ADVERTISEMENT
"Family Caregiver Month is a time to thank, support, educate and celebrate the many devoted family and friends who care for a loved one with a long term chronic illness," explained Kristine Dwyer, caregiver consultant.
She went on to say Family Caregiver Month is an opportunity to draw attention to the challenges facing family caregivers and raise awareness about existing community programs and professionals currently supporting family caregivers.
National Studies suggest that 1 in 4 households are currently providing care to an older adult age 50 or over.
"Our elderly family members want to remain independent and in their homes as long as possible," said Dwyer. "Families, especially adult children, are important to making this happen."
Carlton County Public Health and the Area Agency on Aging fund a Caregiver Support Program in Carlton County, facilitated by Dwyer, who is available to provide consultation to family caregivers, make home visits, offer resources to assist caregivers in their role, and make connections to home services.
She also facilitates a monthly caregiver education and support program in Cloquet. To access this service call 878-2893 or 1-888-818-4511.
Jill Hatfield is the director of the DayBreak In-Home and Group Respite Program. For respite care and other services available to caregivers, call Volunteer Services of Carlton County at 879-9238.
