Sustaining the Care Partner Program

The array of services offered in our Sustaining the Care Partner Program is tailored to address the needs of spouses, companions, adult children, other family members, and friends caring for or providing assistance to individuals with memory disorders such as Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). Programs are built on the understanding that memory disorders can be frustrating, challenging, and sometimes puzzling. Information, education, and support may help both the Care Partner and the person with the memory disorder to maintain the highest possible levels of health, well-being, and quality of life.

Most of these programs are complimentary as a result of many generous grants, gifts, and support of our Caring Hearts Auxiliary. These programs include the following:

• Care Consultations - A staff member provides Care Partners with individualized wellness consultations based on "what matters most" at the time of the consultation. The intent is to provide information that will assist with positive approaches to care of the person with the memory disorder and well as promote the health and wellbeing of the Care Partner. These are typically one-time, issue-focused visits provided on an as-needed basis.
• Psychotherapy/Counseling – Available to individuals of all ages seeking to develop healthier, more effective habits and coping skills, including individuals newly diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, early-stage dementia, or other diagnoses that affect memory and/or wellness and their family Care Partners. Counseling is available to Care Partners who are struggling with emotional reactions (most often sadness, depression, anxiety, and stress) to their changing roles and responsibilities. (See above description.)
• SPA for Care Partners - Self Preservation Activities include psychoeducational presentations that inform Care Partners about a variety of issues associated with caring for someone with a memory disorder. Topics include: understanding the diagnosis of dementia, medication issues, handling behavioral and psychological changes, Advance Care Planning (ACP), recommended lifestyle interventions, and managing stress.
• Community Education and Outreach - The Memory and Wellness Center offers free educational presentations to the community, such as “Keeping Your Mind Sharp” lectures. Please contact us if you would like to attend one of these activities or if your organization or community is interested in hosting a lecture.

Dates and content subject to change. For more information and registration for any of the above events, call: 561-297-0933.

Support Groups

Adult Children Care Partner Support Group - for family members involved in the care of someone with a memory disorder - children, grandchildren, nieces/nephews focused

 

Young-Onset Care Partner Support Group - for family Care Partners (family members involved in the care of a loved one with a memory disorder) who was diagnosed before the age of 65

 

General Care Partner Support Group - for family Care Partners (family members involved in the care of a loved one with a memory disorder) - spousal Care Partner focused

 

If you are interested in joining a group, please email memorylane@health.fau.edu.