Appendix 1

The presentation recognizes that our image of aging is shaped by many factors: observations, media portrayals, personal knowledge, memories and cultural influences. Sometimes these images are built on myths and misconceptions. This session will explore the most common myths and confront the realities by relating factual information. The session will also offer a brief introduction to the idea of 'caregiving'.

Objectives

Participants will:

1. Share some of their caregiving story with others and hear their stories.
2. Be introduced to the format and plan for the six-week series.
3. Begin various aspects of caregiving.
4. Explore some of the myths and realities surrounding the aging process.

Module Two - Understanding Normal Aging

There are many changes in all aspects of our lives that occur as we age. This session will examine the normal changes that occur over the life course, some factors which worsen the effect of these changes (disease, lifestyle, environment), and what these changes actually mean in our ability to function independently. There will be brief discussions of some topics such as nutrition, medication and retirement as they relate to later life.

Objectives

Participants will:

1. Become aware of some of the normal changes that occur in the aging process.
2. Increase their knowledge of the possible effects of the normal changes
3. Become aware of the many factors that contribute to the aging process.

Module Three - Communication Skills for Caregivers

Communication, both verbal and non-verbal, forms the cornerstone of our relationships. The information in this session will help participants increase their understanding of the communication process. When an individual has a physical or mental impairment, the ability to communicate effectively is challenged. Caregivers will share some techniques which enhance the communication process when there is hearing or vision loss, dementia or aphasia. The concept of Life Review will be briefly explored.

Objectives

Participants will:

1. Increase their basic understanding of the communication process.
2. Explore the significance of the Life Review process
3. Discuss some types of health problems which can affect an individual's ability to communicate.
4. Become aware of specific techniques that can enhance communication when there are challenges.

Module Four - Losses as we Age

Old age is often thought to be a time of losses. Some of these are among the most predictable in the life cycle. Their predictability offers us an opportunity to plan and educate ourselves. We will explore how we are personally affected by loss and how we can enhance our coping strategies. The session will discuss some of the shared losses in the caregiving situation. The focus is that loss is change, and change challenges us.

Objectives

Participants will:

1. Enhance their understanding of the concept of loss as part of the life cycle.
2. Become aware of the extensive range of personal reactions to loss.
3. Discuss techniques which help people to cope with loss.

Module Five - Caring for Someone with Dementia

Caring for someone with dementia calls on all of our coping skills and creativity. There are effective tips that can be tried to minimize upsets for both the care receiver and caregiver. This session will offer some information about dementia and share some ideas for responding to behavioural changes. The focus will be on encouragement for the caregiver to seek and accept assistance with care.

Objectives:

Participants will:

1. Identify some of the unique challenges in caring for someone with dementia.
2. Understand behaviors associated with dementia and the impact on caregivers.
3. Discuss some of the personal experiences they have had.
4. Explore some strategies for responding to persons with dementia.

Module Six - Stress Management

Stress is a necessary and ordinary part of our lives; stressors are the events which cause us to react. We will explore some of the factors which affect our reactions and examine our unique style of reactions. This session will explore the concept of Stress Management and ways in which we can effectively handle the stress we experience. Caregivers will be encouraged to discuss some of the stresses they experience in the caregiving situation.

Objectives

Participants will:

1. Discuss the concept of stress
2. Learn about some factors which affect reactions to stress
3. Examine personal reactions to stress
4. Explore the concept of "stress management"
5. Share some of the stresses they encounter in the caregiving situation