Breathe A Little Easier with Caregiver Connections

Written by Lisa Klinkman, Chelsea Senior Center

The new living arrangement seems to benefit everyone.

Diane says, “We’ve all adjusted to our new living arrangements quite well. All my kids are amazing with their Nannie and Poppa. My boys [and nephews] host outings for a beer and wings, my daughters help with personal care and spend time on the couch watching movies. Lastly, my husband spends a lot of time with them, taking them to lunch, appointments, or the grocery store.”

Carole has an optimistic outlook since moving in with Diane and Brandon. “It is so nice to know they are nearby if we need help.” Carole and Vince both shine with pride and joy when any of their grandchildren are mentioned. Carole laughs when she recalls grandkids coming to Nannie and Poppa’s room to ask for ice cream from their refrigerator.

Chelsea Senior Center’s memory support programming is made possible with funding from 5 Healthy Towns Foundation.

Chelsea Senior Center is excited to launch a new related program this Spring called Ease the Day: Caregiver Respite Support, which aims to give family caregivers a break for a few hours a week. Call 734-475-9242 for more details.

Exhale, the Family Caregiver Initiative, is funded by the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, Health Foundation for Western & Central New York, Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, and managed by The Philanthropic Initiative. Exhale, the Family Caregiver Initiative, is dedicated to offering innovative solutions that give caregivers of older adults an opportunity to breathe a little easier. Visit www.exhaleforcaregivers.org to learn more.