Extension Office offers training program for caregivers to elderly

Published 10:30 pm Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Home and respite caregiver’s training is being offered through the Pike County Extension Office during the month of August.

Grant Lyons, Pike County Extension coordinator, said learning the basic aspects of caring for an elderly or disabled person is a beneficial opportunity for those who are involved in those situations.

“The Home Caregiver Training is for people who would like to improve their knowledge and skills in caring for older and disabled people in the home,” Lyons said. “Those who complete the course will be better able to provide basic home care services to those in need. The program is for family members or friends of those who need in-home care. It’s also for those who are interested in increasing employment opportunities in the caregiving field.”

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The training consists of three classes that begin on Aug. 15 and continue on Aug. 22 and 29. All classes will meet from noon until 4:45 p.m. at Cattleman Park on Highway 231 south of Troy.

“The program offers 13 and a half hours in the basic care of disabled and older people,” Lyons said. “The training will also include (information about) basic dementia, behavioral complications and caregiver’s stress. Nutrition and diabetes, food safety and other topics related to caregiving will also be included in the program. All of the topics are of interest and value to anyone who is caring for an elderly person or one who is disabled.”

Presenters will represent the Alabama Department of Public Health, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, AlaCare, Ariel Home Medical, Dementia Education Training Act Program, Hospice Advantage, SCADA and Troy University.

Those who participate will receive certificates of attendance from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System that lists the number of hours attended. There is a one-time registration fee of $10.

For more information about registration and reservations, call 334-566-0985. Pr-registration is needed to reserve a manual.