TCARE: A New Tool to Identify Your Needs

Family caregivers often put the needs and concerns of their loved one ahead of their own. Perhaps it even feels unclear exactly when and how a relationship changes and we recognize that our role has evolved into that of a caregiver.

Cooking FROM PAGE 2

Cask for a Cause fundraiser hosted by Brothers Craft Brewing on March 17 (which is also St. Paddy’s Day). The event will feature a specially crafted beer brewed exclusively for the event. Music will be provided by Dwight Martin. ood iredco will feature wood fired pi as for sale on site. e will be raf in off all kinds of exciting items – including restaurant gift cards to encourage meals out with an older adult.

The Community Champions Day is special meal delivery day in which local community leaders will be invited to deliver meals. Over 55,000 meals were deliveredtohomebound older adults living in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County this past year. We all know that the meal

By: Joyce Nussbaum, VPAS Programs Director

Whether the transition to being a family caregiver happens suddenly or gradually, the health and well-being of the caregiver is often directly related to the well-being of the care receiver. Even with this knowledge and the best intentions, it can be difficult for family care i ers to is important butit’s the friendly smile, kind words, and a sense of security that comes with knowing someone is checking on you that really makes a difference.

VPAS invites you to help us cook up community this month. Here is how you can make a difference:

•Share a meal with an older adult in your life

•Volunteer to deliver meals

•Make a donation to help support VPAS’ Meals on Wheels program

•Show your support by joining us at Brothers Craft Brewing on March 17 find the time to ta e care of themsel es and access needed support and education.

VPAS empowers adults 60 years and older with the resources and opportunities they need to lead engaged lives.

To learn more about our services visit our website at www.vpas.info, or call 540-615-5341.

Valley Program for Aging Services offers a Tailored Caregiver Assessment and Referral (TCARE), a valuable tool designed to help us best support family caregivers in ways that might be missed without the assessment. TCARE is designed to identify the source of caregiver stress and to connect family caregivers with the most relevant strategies and support services available. Participating in

See TCARE, Page 10