ADRC groups partnering on spa, educational event for caregivers

JANESVILLE — The Aging and Disability Resource Centers of Jefferson, Rock and Dane Counties are planning a day in November to pamper family caregivers.

The event, at no cost to attendees, will be at The Fort Atkinson Club, 211 S. Water St., in Fort Atkinson, on Wednesday, Nov. 6, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Karen Tennyson, a dementia care specialist at the Rock County Aging and Disability Resource Center said Rock County has been doing a similar event for three years, but this is the first year that they are working with Jefferson and Dane Counties.

She said it will be a time for home caregivers to get some time to take care of themselves and relax. Attendees will be offered massages, facials, reiki sessions and education.

“We just want to help give help to caregivers by giving them education on different skills, techniques and just information for taking care of they’re family members,” she said.

“With dementia patients it’s a brain disorder that affects personality and emotions, that can be hard to manage if you don’t know so we want to help them learn ways to help them but also honor them by giving them a chance to relax.”

The day starts with a variety of spa and relaxation services.

Lunch is included and will be followed by an afternoon of informative conversation about a variety of topics related to caring for someone with dementia including safety, security, technology, research and perspectives from a family caregiver and person with a dementia diagnosis.

Full and half day sessions are available. Respite care for family members is available based on need and with a prior registration for services. Pre Registration is required by calling Tennyson at (608) 741-3615 for more information and to complete a registration.

For more information on the dementia care specialist program and services available, please contact your local Aging and Disability Resource Center.