Senior Services launches support program for dementia carers

In association with a statewide program called Wyoming Dementia Together, caregivers to people who are suffering from dementia have the opportunity through Crook County Senior Services (CCSS) to become part of an inclusive community for support and education.

“CCSS will be partnering with the University of Wyoming to provide a dementia support group at all three senior centers,” says Jenna Ellsbury, Director of CCSS.

The Wyoming Dementia Together program provides bi-weekly education and support that has been tailored to people living in this region. It is a free program that helps people increase their knowledge of dementia and how to support a loved one, as well as how to strength their support network and manage stress and challenging situations.

Topics for discussion at upcoming gatherings include, for example, how to create a safe environment and how to go about financial and legal planning. The program is run with the assistance of a professional support team that includes a psychologists, social worker, dementia consultant, an occupational therapist and more.

To participate in the program, says Ellsbury, “They will meet at the centers and follow the schedule.” The Wyoming Dementia Together Network provides bi-weekly “caregiver experiences” beginning at 10:30 a.m. and lasting for one hour, with the time divided between an educational discussion and the chance to share your story for discussion and feedback from the network of caregivers and professional support team.

For more information, contact Crook County Senior Services at 283-1711.