The Catskill Chronicle

LIBERTY, NY— National Family Caregivers Month in November applauds the loving care of the dedicated family caregivers from which our communities benefit. They can often go unrecognized and may not realize how much they do. Caregivers don’t require a special thank you but it’s always nice to receive one.

On Tuesday, November 19, 2013, the Caregiver Resource Center (CRC) of Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Sullivan County hosts its annual holiday party thanking our county caregivers. The free celebration will be held at Yiasou Café in Liberty at 6:00 p.m.

Participants can enjoy a lecture entitled “Partners in Healing: Simple Ways to Offer Support, Comfort & Care to a Loved One Facing Illness,” presented by special guest lecturer Susan Buzzell, LMT and Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. The CRC will treat caregivers to any homemade dessert available and any non-alcoholic beverage they prefer. Pre-registration is required by November 13 by calling CCE at 845-292-6180.

The CRC salutes those special people who serve as family caregivers during National Family Caregivers Month. They commit much time and energy towards caring for spouses, parents, and other loved ones who require daily assistance in dealing with physical, developmental, and/or emotional needs. The National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) began honoring family caregivers in 1994 during Thanksgiving week, eventually naming November as National Family Caregivers Month.

The Caregiver Resource Center, Cornell Cooperative Extension and Office for the Aging (OFA) want to say “thank you” to the people who care for family members and loved ones and encourages them to empower themselves with the education and resources to nurture themselves. These resources include caregiving classes, information on coping through support groups, senior services through the OFA, and more provided by the CRC. Questions about the CRC can be directed to Bonnie Lewis, RN at bjl25@cornell.edu.