Those looking to learn how to manage your stress and time management for caring for an aging loved one are invited to a series of workshops hosted by the Greene County ISU Extension office.

Extension Coordinator Michael Cooley says these workshops will focus on strategies to reduce stress for caregivers, improving self-confidence and communication, balancing life’s aspects, increasing ability to make tough decisions and locating helpful resources.

He points out that these six-workshops will be very helpful for caregivers to learn how to better balance their lives so they can give the best care for an aging loved one.

“This is an opportunity to sit through some really good informational sessions (in a) very casual, very laid-back (and) a very relaxed atmosphere with other people who are going through the same thing.  And have some discussions, learn some new tools and be able to really think about your role as a caregiver and how to make sure to take care of yourself throughout the process as well.”

The cost to sign up is $30 per participant which includes meals that will be served each night and a 200-page workbook from the Legacy Caregiver Services for additional resources and helpful tools.

The registration fee is greatly reduced thanks to several local sponsors and supporters, including Greene County Extension, Elderbridge Agency on Aging, Mikki Schwarzkopf, and Shirley Stapleton.  Cooley points out that there are scholarships available to help pay for the sessions as well.

The classes will be on Tuesday nights from May 20th through June 24th at the First Presbyterian Church in Jefferson from 5:30-8:30pm.  Those who aren’t current caregivers may also register.  The deadline to sign up is by Friday, May 16th at the Extension office in Jefferson.