Caregiver Support Group

The Caregiver Support Group meetings that were held monthly at Veterans Memorial Hospital, continue to be held through conference calls during COVID-19.  Northeast Iowa Agency on Aging is offering weekly Caregiver Support Group conference calls every Monday from 10-11 a.m.

To join a call, just dial 1-800-264-8432.  Then enter the participant code 961847#.  You will then be connected to the support group conference call, joining other caregivers.

When a person is diagnosed with a chronic illness, a lot of focus and attention is put on how to keep that person as independent and as healthy as possible. When a person loses some of their abilities to care for themselves the burden of care is often assumed by the spouse, a child (or children), or sometimes friends and neighbors. While everyone who becomes a caregiver handles the added responsibility with different skill sets, attitudes, and understanding levels, there is no question that there is a very real strain associated with care giving.

Northeast Iowa Agency on Aging is reaching out to extend this program during COVID-19 to keep people safe at home, yet offer them the support they need as a caregiver.  This support group can assist caregivers with finding in-home supports, nursing home care, applying for Medicaid and providing support and assistance in handling guilt/burnout/fatigue and other complex emotions related to caregiving.

Please contact Kelly Kuennen of Northeast Iowa Agency on Aging at 800-779-8707 with any questions.